Applying Multiple Intelligences in the Classroom

There are a number of definitions of learning styles. Dr. Ritha Dunn (1988) defines it as "the way in which each learner begins to concentrate on, process, and retain new and difficult information". Learning styles have also been described as how one deals with ideas and day-to-day situations, one's learning preferences and propensities, how one approaches thinking, and how one best perceives and process information.

Gardner (1999a) identifies not two, but nine different intelligences: linguistic, logical mathematical, spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, musical, interpersonal, intrapersonal, naturalist, and existential. Gardner defined the first seven intelligences in Frames of Mind (1983). He added the last two in Intelligence Reframed (1999)

Using multiple learning styles and multiple intelligences for learning is relatively new approach. This approach is one that educators have only recently started to recognize. Traditional schooling used (and continues to use) mainly linguistic and logical teaching methods. It also uses a limited range of learning and teaching techniques. Many schools still rely on classroom and book-based teaching, much repetition, and pressured exams for reinforcement and review. A result is that we often label those who use these learning styles and techniques as bright. Those who use less favored learning styles often find themselves in lower classes, with various not-so-complimentary labels and sometimes lower quality teaching. This can create positive and negative spirals that reinforce the belief that one is "smart" or "dumb".

By recognizing and understanding your own learning styles, you can use techniques better suited to you. This improves the speed and quality of your learning.