The theory of multiple intelligences is a theory of intelligence proposed by Howard Gardner who asserts that students have their varied strengths and weaknesses in learning. Each person has intellectual profile. The intelligences are found in the different parts of the brain to work independently or together. These can be nurtured or developed, or ignored and weakened. According to Gardner, we can improve and enhance education by identifying our student’s multiple intelligences and understanding their learning styles.

Gardner (1999a) identifies not two, but nine different intelligences: linguistic, logical- mathematical, spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, musical, interpersonal, intrapersonal, naturalist, and existential. As a teacher, you should know beforehand the variety of intelligences among your students. Identifying such will help you guide the students learn and process information, as a result, you will have the knowledge to address the challenges faced by your students. Using or applying multiple intelligences in  the classroom can give them opportunities for authentic learning based on your students’ needs, interests, and talents. This proposition by Gardner serves as the “real” world for them. In addition, this theory can also be used for curriculum development, selection of relevant activities, and related assessment strategies. Instruction designed in helping students develop their strengths that will boost their confidence and self-esteem to enhance areas in which they are not as strong. Multiple learning preferences of the students can be given attention if the instruction includes appropriate and meaningful repertoire of methods, assessment and activities.

In my own personal experience, I had already identified some student’s learning preferences. I made sure that the activities given to them were relevant and  match their intelligence. Also, I integrate educational theories, teaching strategies and pedagogical tool that are meaningful to supplement their needs. It should be appropriate to guarantee learning. In my classroom, I also  incorporate M. I. to assure that they were given suitable assessment material that fits to their level.

According to (Educational Broadcasting Corporation, 2004b, pp. 3-8), “teachers can enhance students learning and strengthen their intelligences by nurturing the whole spectrum of intelligences. Three types of classroom teaching strategies are conducive to nurturing the whole spectrum of intelligences: “presentations, simulations, and learning centers.” It is vital that as facilitators of learning should integrate multiple intelligences in the classroom by teaching the subject matter by means of variety of activities and projects.

Overall, M. I. theory should be applied in the Philippine setting. This will help students to know their preferred learning strategies and guide teachers on the selection of exercises most especially methods of instruction.

References:

Educational Broadcasting Corporation. (2004b). Tapping into multiple intelligences: Implementation. New York, NY: Author

Howard Gardner. (2010). Multiple intelligences. http://www.howardgardner.com/MI/mi.html

By: Camille Anne C. Geronia