Different Types of Learning Styles in Education and Implications

Back to: Learning and Teaching – Unit 1

Howard Gardner

Howard Gardner, an American psychologist, proposed that learning styles can be of different types through his theory of Multiple Intelligence. He suggested that there are eight types of intelligence due to which there are different types of learners.

Different Types of Learning Styles

The different types of learning styles in education according to Gardner multiple intelligence theory are as follows:

Linguistic Intelligence

This type of intelligence is concerned with the written and spoken language, the ability to acquire or learn a language, and to use the language to fulfill one’s ambitions. People who have linguistic intelligence are adept in activities including written and verbal language such as books, speeches, and the like. For instance, William Shakespeare.

Logical Mathematical Intelligence

Logical intelligence refers to the ability of solving problems by analyzing them in a logical manner. People with logical intelligence have the ability to solve calculations and problems effectively. For instance, Albert Einstein.

Spatial Intelligence

This type of intelligence refers to the ability to recognize the patterns of wide spaces of confined areas. This kind of intelligence can be found amongst architects, chess players, and the like. For instance, Amelia Earhart.

Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence

It refers to the ability to use one’s body or parts of the body to solve problems or perform certain activities. These people are good at activities like sports, dance, and the like. For instance, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Musical Intelligence

It refers to the ability to create, compose, perform, and appreciate musical patterns. For instance, Taylor Swift.

Interpersonal Intelligence

It is the ability to understand the emotions, desires, intentions, and the like of other people to communicate with them effectively. For instance, Mother Teresa.

Intrapersonal Intelligence

It refers to the ability of understanding oneself, one’s emotions, desires, fears, and the like to live one’s life successfully. For instance, Aristotle.

Naturalist Intelligence

It refers to the ability to recognize and classify the numerous species of one’s surroundings. For instance, Charles Darwin.

These are the eight types of multiple intelligences suggested by Gardner. Many cognitive psychometricians and psychologists do not support this theory stating that there is less empirical evidence.

Educational Implications

The educational implications of different learning styles are as follows:

1. Students must not be assessed identically because people may have different types of intelligence.
2. Technology can be used in the modern age to assess the different types of intelligence present in individuals.
3. Topics should not be taught in a monotonous way. It should be taught in different ways.
4. A wide variety of approaches and activities must be used for learning so that learners can think in different ways.
5. Different ways of demonstration must be used for teaching a topic.

Conclusion

These are some of the most important things you need to keep in mind when you are teaching learners according to Gardner’s multiple intelligence theory.