Discussion on weekly topics and concepts

Multiple Intelligences Theory

Application of the Multiple Intelligences Theory in the Classroom Setting

Twentieth century intellectual thought is characterized by the development of new perspectives and ideologies that seek to challenge the popular, conventional thought of the 19th century: modernism. Where once modernism dominated 19th century thinking, postmodernism and pragmatic thinking became popular alternatives, challenging the idea that there is only one dominant school of thought in the history of humanity -- modernism. Thus, with the prevalence of belief that there exists multiple truths and perspectives in understanding various phenomena, both natural and social, new development in different fields of study have also emerged reflecting pragmatism and postmodernism.

The field of education, particularly educational practice and research, have been revolutionized with the introduction of the Multiple Intelligences Theory, proposed by Howard Gardner through his book, Frames of Mind, published in 1983. The theory posits that "intelligence is a biopsychological potential that could be influenced by experience, culture, and motivational factors" (Visser, 2006:487). It broke the conventional wisdom that intellect is based on linguistic ability and logical reasoning, measured through Intelligence Quotient (IQ) tests. Further, Gardner, through the principles and theoretical foundations from MI theory, as the theory is popularly called, introduced the development of an assessment tool that is considered "intelligence fair" and tests for a wider expanse of "intelligences" that an individual could have (489). Gardner identified these intelligences into eight (8) domains, namely: (1) linguistic, (2) spatial, (3) logical/mathematical, (4) interpersonal, (5) intrapersonal, (6) naturalistic, (7) bodily-kinesthetic, and (8) musical.

Applying the MI theory in the classroom setting would help the teacher/educator understand his/her students' intelligences. Potentially, after identifying these intelligences in each student, the teacher would then be more capable of enhancing these intelligences and in effect, inducing learner within each student the motivation to excel in school, using the strength of their intelligences. Recognition of students' multiple intelligences would make teacher-student interaction within the classroom more dynamic: learning would be more understandable and 'attractive' for students and the teacher would have effective communication to students and would accomplish of sharing learning with them.