Different Types of Intelligence in the Classroom
Back to: Learning and Teaching – Unit 3
Just one characteristic or trait cannot determine the intelligence of a person. While one may be considered intelligent for scoring high grades or solving numerical fast, another may be considered so for playing an instrument of speaking multiple languages. Hence, intelligence is not limited to one characteristic. Let’s look at the different types of intelligence that can be found inside a classroom.
Different Types of Intelligence in the Classroom
Not all children have the same way of thinking and learning. One student may be excellent in English and another may be good at solving mathematical problems. While one may have the skills to play an instrument, another may be great at sports. Not all students have the same knowledge and skills as each person is different from another.
According to Dr. Howard Gardner of Harvard University, there are eight different types of intelligence. He came up with this theory, termed the “Theory of Multiple Intelligences” in 1983 in his book “Frames of mind”. Here are the right types of intelligence a person possess according to him:
Verbal-linguistic intelligence: “word smart”
It is the ability of an individual to gather information and use their knowledge to produce creative written work such as poetry and stories or for oral speaking such as speech and debates.
Logical-mathematical intelligence: “maths smart”
This is when a person is good at logic games, can detect patterns, can do calculations, and solve abstract problems.
Visual-spatial intelligence, “picture smart”
This includes people that are good at visual representation such as painters and architects. They look at objects from a different point of view. They also have the ability to form mental images and create their own unique and creative work.
Musical intelligence, “music smart”
This involves people that are good at composing, directing, writing, and creating music, and those good at playing instruments. These individuals have the ability to illustrate a concept and tell stories through their music.
Naturalistic intelligence, “nature smart”
It is the ability of a person to identify and differentiate among the various types of plants, animals, earth, and weather formations present in the world. It’s an understanding of how nature works. This includes botanists, farmers, landscapers, and more.
Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence, “body smart”
It is the ability to use one’s body to express emotions, create products or solve problems. It includes the surgeons, athletes, and dancers to name a few.
Interpersonal intelligence, “people smart”
It is the ability to interact and communicate with others. These people have empathy for others and are good at noticing and understanding other people’s moods, desires, motivations, and intentions. Teachers and counsellors are included in this type of Intelligence.
Intrapersonal intelligence, “self smart”
It is the people’s ability to recognize and acknowledge one’s feelings, emotions, allowing for self-reflection and awareness. These people are conscious of the little things in life and have a greater connection with things in the world. These include philosophers, psychologists, and theologists.
These are the different types of intelligence that can be found in the classroom.
