A Guide to Using Multiple Intelligences in Classroom

In schools, every student has a different way of learning, where some students grasp concepts through visuals and others excel through music or logical reasoning. From a student's perspective, learning can be done in various ways, like storytelling, peer discussion, or real-life examples. These multiple intelligences of learning help students in education and excel in their skills in their area of interest. In this blog, we’ll explain what multiple intelligence is and why it’s important to implement in the classroom.

What Are Multiple Intelligences? 

The term multiple intelligences was introduced by the psychologist Howard Gardner in the early 1980s. According to his theory, every student has a different intelligence, which could be linguistic, logical-mathematical, musical, etc.  

For example, two students (Name A and B) are studying mathematics in a classroom. Student A understands the concept through numbers and patterns. On the other hand, student B understands the same concept through charts and diagrams. This reflects that every student has a different intelligence for learning the same concept.  

Similarly, Gardner's theory defines that intelligence isn’t a single general ability but consists of multiple different abilities. These can be categorized into the following types:   

• Linguistic Intelligence – good in understanding spoken and written words  

• Logical-Mathematical Intelligence – fast in solving complex numbers and logical thinking. 

• Visual-Spatial Intelligence – ability to imagine things in mind and good in understanding shape, map and pictures. 

• Musical Intelligence – able to understand rhythm, sound and tunes quickly 

• Bodily-Kinaesthetic Intelligence – solve problems or create things by using the body or hand; good at sports, dance, or acting. 

• Interpersonal Intelligence – able to understand the feeling and emotion of other people 

• Naturalistic Intelligence – intrested in the environment and natural world: can recognising plants, animals, and nature. 

Why Use Multiple Intelligences in the Classroom? 

Implementing multiple intelligence in the classroom can help teachers to understand the way of learning of each student. Every student in a classroom possesses a unique combination of intelligence, by recognise it can help teachers to make an effective teaching strategy for each student.  

Let’s look at why it’s beneficial in the classroom: 

1. Addresses Diverse Learning Styles 

Addressing multiple intelligences helps teachers to make a more inclusive and effective teaching approach that caters to the diverse learning needs of their students. It allows educators to present lessons in varied formats, ensuring that every student learns and engages with the concept.  

 2. Boosts Student Engagement 

Teaching with different methods helps students to engage and become more interested in class. This makes better participation and enthusiasm among students in class activities. 

3. Enhances Understanding and Retention 

Presenting information in the form of diagrams, songs and small activities create interest in students which helps them to grasp concepts more deeply.  

4. Promotes Inclusivity 

The approach of teaching students with their intelligence makes the students feel more valued. As a result, it reduces the stigma for students who may find it difficult to learn with the conventional of teaching.  

5. Supports Comprehensive Development 

Beyond academics, multiple intelligences can help students to develop emotional, social and physical skills which prepare students for the real-world challenges. 

6. Improves Teaching Effectiveness 

With the help of multiple intelligences, teachers can understand the ability of students and make lesson dynamic for students. 

Final Thoughts 

Implementing the multiple intelligence in the classroom offers various benefits which come with promoting meaningful learning experience for all students. At K.R. Mangalam World School, School in Vikaspuri, we encourage students' unique abilities and interests. Our teachers deliver lessons that are diverse, varied, interactive, and inclusive. This approach not only boosts students' engagement but also makes learning fun and inclusive.