Theory of Multiple Intelligences: Knowing the Type of Learner Your Child Is Can Help Them Grow School/Education

As a teacher educator who teaches the introductory class on how to be a teacher, one of the first things I teach my students is known as the theory of multiple intelligences, put forth by Harvard professor Howard Gardner. This idea, widely accepted in education, simply states that we all learn in different ways, that we have proclivities towards some over others and that they are all important (and able to be developed).

Knowing this theory can not only help parents work with their children, but also empowers the kids themselves. For example, if we know a child learns well by doing something with their hands, we may not want to rely on verbal instruction/explanation, but rather try to get them doing something to help them comprehend. The intelligences have evolved over time, but here is a list of what I consider the seminal ones and how you might use them when working with your child:

• Linguistic – use words/language to help them

• Logical/Mathematical – use numbers or math concepts

• Spatial – use visuals/pictures

• Musical – use music, lyrics, rhyme

• Kinesthetic – get them moving, using their hands, etc.

By Bradley Conrad, Ph.D., Capital University 

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