Knowra Theory of multiple intelligences Theory of multiple intelligences Howard Gardner’s theory proposes that human intelligence comprises distinct abilities, including linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalistic intelligence.
General intelligence : A proposed broad cognitive capacity that contributes to performance across diverse intellectual tasks. Gardner’s account challenges the idea that one general factor adequately represents all intellectual abilities.
Linguistic intelligence : The proposed capacity to use language effectively in speaking, writing, and understanding. Gardner associates this intelligence with sensitivity to words, meaning, and verbal expression.
Howard Gardner : An American developmental psychologist who proposed the theory of multiple intelligences. Gardner developed and named the theory in his 1983 book Frames of Mind.
Differentiated instruction : An approach that adapts teaching methods or materials to differences among learners. Educators have used the theory to motivate varied ways of presenting and practicing content.
Cattell–Horn–Carroll theory : A hierarchical model of cognitive abilities that organizes broad and narrow abilities beneath general intelligence. It represents cognitive abilities through a psychometric hierarchy rather than Gardner’s multiple-intelligences framework.
Psychometrics : The study of measuring psychological attributes, including abilities, traits, and knowledge. The theory’s scientific standing depends partly on how its proposed abilities can be measured.
Logical-mathematical intelligence : The proposed capacity to reason logically, recognize patterns, and work with mathematical relationships. It captures the abstract reasoning often treated as a central measure of intelligence.
Frames of Mind : Howard Gardner’s 1983 book introducing the theory of multiple intelligences. This book set out the theory’s original case and its proposed criteria for intelligence.
Learning styles : The claim that people learn best when instruction matches their preferred mode of presentation. Multiple intelligences is often conflated with learning styles, though the claims are distinct.
Multiple intelligences theory in education : Educational interpretations that use Gardner’s theory to shape teaching, curricula, or assessment. Classroom applications are often stronger than the evidence that distinct intelligences are independent psychological faculties.
Show all 25