Gardner’s multiple intelligences theory

The theory of multiple intelligences was developed in 1983 by Dr. Howard Gardner, professor of education at Harvard University.

The theory shows eight criteria for a behavior to be considered an intelligence. They are: verbal-linguistic (word smart), mathematical-logical (math smart), visual-spatial (art smart), interpersonal (people-smart), intrapersonal (self-smart), bodily-kinesthetic (body smart), naturalist (nature smart), musical-rhythmic (music smart).

Gardner distinguished the intelligences with great detail but he opposes the idea of labeling learnings to a specific intelligence. Each learner has a unique blend of all the intelligence. The theory empowers learners not to restrict them to one modality of learning.

These intelligences could be related to the to the CLIL classroom.

When we deal with diverse learning styles we have to keep in mind that we teach  students and not just a subject. It is also important to identify the learning styles and have different materials, lessons plans or exercises for the class.

There are three basic groups of learning styles: auditory learners, visual learners and kinesthetic or tactile learners.

·    Auditory learners learn best through listening the message. Some of the materials teachers could use with them are: lectures, verbal instruction, songs, acronyms, flip cards, books on tape or listening to review material, oral exams. In order to study, auditory learners should read their material aloud.

·     Visual learners learn best through what they see and the images they have created in their mind. Teachers could use with them: illustrations, diagrams, and charts and flip cards.

·     Tactile learners learn best through touching, feeling and doing. Teachers should incorporate hands-on projects, multi-media assignments, skits, movement, and physical artifacts as examples. These students also respond well to object lessons if they are able to touch the object involved.

To conclude I believe that we should bear in mind the different learning styles, and take advantage of the classroom diversity. So we have to identify how our students learn better and to make groups in order they could help each other. Beside we need use a variety of lessons plans and exercises for the class, in this way we offer a better teaching learning process.