Dr. Howard Gardner's Theory Of Multiple Intelligences

Dr. Howard Gardner has developed the theory of multiple intelligences (MI) by the research in developmental and neuropsychology which began in the early 1970s. MI theory is based on the belief that human beings posses a complex set of abilities beyond what is measured through traditional Intelligence Quotient (IQ).The theory was first published in his book “Frames of Mind” in 1983. According to Conti (2016, p.1) “This theory views human intelligence as a complex web of abilities that are evident in one 's products and preferences for learning.” Gardner (1995) reported that his concept of intelligences is a derivative of accumulating knowledge about the human brain and human cultures, not based on the result of deduced definitions or of factor

Howard Gardner defined seven key intelligences as: Linguistic intelligence, Logical-mathematical intelligence, Musical intelligence, Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence, Visual-spatial intelligence, Interpersonal intelligence, Intrapersonal intelligence. Smith (2002, 2008) stated that linguistic intelligence includes affectability to spoken and composed language, the ability to learn languages, and the ability to utilize language to achieve certain objectives. Logical-mathematical intelligences is the capacity to ascertain, evaluate, consider recommendations and speculations, and do complex numerical operations. Giles, E., Pitre, S., Womack, S. (2003) reported that Musical knowledge alludes to the capacity to comprehend, make, and interpret musical pitches, timbre, rhythm, and tones and the ability to make music. According to Brauer (2002) bodily-kinesthetic intelligence allows people to utilize all or part of the body to make products or solve issues. Visual-spatial intelligence includes seeing, manipulating, relating, and constructing visual images of all kinds, both directly through the eyes and in the mind’s eye (Nardi, 2001). Interpersonal intelligence is the ability to comprehend and associate successfully with others. According to Phaneuf (2006) Interpersonal intelligence gives us the ability to consider who we are, to understand about ourselves and, to have an individual identity. Intrapersonal intelligence permits us to practice a valuable skill in

Empirical evidence for MI is not necessary

2. Intelligence is not a tangible object

3. MI are novel constructs requiring new measures

4. MI theory has been validated by its classroom applications

5. MI theory profiles cognitive skill better than do IQ subtests

None of the arguments make the requirement for validating theory less important. MI theory remain as theory that cannot be validated, unless the components of the theory are specified, but since Gardner has said that he will not specify such components, so the theory of MI is not likely to be validated. Chen (2004) stated that MI theory is validated through application but does not satisfy the need for valid data since this type of application does not provide valid data. No studies have yet proved that the cognitive ability profiles created by MI are any better than those created by IQ