Understanding Different Types of Intelligence
- HEALIS AUTISM CENTRE
- Apr 1
- 4 min read
Introduction.
The Theory of Multiple Intelligences was first proposed by developmental psychologist Howard Gardner, in 1983 (Marenus, 2024; Nuzzi, 2024). Gardner believed that intelligence was the “biopsychological potential to process information that can be activated in a cultural setting to solve problems or create products that are of value in a culture” and expanded it into several forms of intellectual competencies (Marenus, 2024). In order to qualify as an intelligence, the considered cognitive ability must fulfil the eight criteria mentioned in Nuzzi’s (2024) article. The theory states that everybody possesses all the intelligences, but to a different degree based on genetics or experiences.
The 9 Intelligences.
There were initially 7 intelligences when the Theory of Multiple Intelligences was first introduced. Naturalistic Intelligence was added slightly later, and Existential Intelligence took its place as the 9th intelligence in 1999 (Nuzzi, 2024).
Linguistic Intelligence (language smart):
Individuals with high linguistic intelligence are more sensitive to the meaning, sounds, and syntax of languages. Hence, they acquire them easily, are good at text analysis, and are often more articulate. These skills are particularly useful in roles that require plenty of speaking or writing such as hosts, journalists, and lawyers.
Logical-Mathematical Intelligence (number smart):
Individuals with high logical-mathematical intelligence possess good analytical and reasoning skills that allow them to deduce the lines for critical thinking and problem-solving. These skills benefit greatly in investigative roles that follow a scientific and technical approach – such as accountants, scientists, and engineers.
Spatial Intelligence (picture smart):
Individuals with high spatial intelligence carry good visualisation skills and are able to manipulate the visual-spatial world in their minds. This includes recognising patterns in a large space, and intricacies in a small area. Hence, they are usually strong navigators, artists, and puzzle fixers. These skills are great for roles such as architects, surgeons, and pilots.
Bodily-Kinaesthetic Intelligence (physical smart):
Individuals with high bodily-kinaesthetic intelligence have high bodily awareness and typically possess good coordination, balance, dexterity, strength, and flexibility. For some of them, it is specific parts of their bodies – such as the hands and mouth – that they are talented in using. These skills are suited to roles that rely on the physical body to perform, and create solutions or products. For example; firefighters, physical therapists, dancers, and mechanics.
Musical Intelligence (music smart):
Individuals with high musical intelligence are more sensitive to the rhythm, pitch, melody, and tone in music. Hence, they are good at perceiving and creating musical patterns, and possibly make good performers as well. These skills are great for anyone interested in pursuing roles in the music industry such as musical therapists, composers, and musicians.
Interpersonal Intelligence (people smart):
Individuals with high interpersonal intelligence are what we know as someone with high EQ. They are more sensitive to other’s moods, temperaments, motivations, and desires. Hence, these individuals make better communicators, are able to understand others better and do well in building relationships and working with people. Roles that require understanding and rapport building – such as psychologists, businesspeople, and politicians – would be suitable for them.
Intrapersonal Intelligence (self smart):
Individuals with high intrapersonal intelligence are highly aware of their emotions and thoughts, their strengths and shortcomings, their fears and desires. This information allows them to regulate themselves and articulate themselves well. Hence, they would be suitable for roles that require someone who is self-aware and stable – such as therapists, clergy, and programme planners.
Naturalist Intelligence (nature smart):
Individuals with high naturalist intelligence are sensitive to the flora, fauna, and phenomena in nature. Hence, they are able to recognize and categorize them well, as well as spot patterns in nature. These strengths are befitting to roles that study the natural environment such as biologists, animal trainers, and astronomers.
Existential Intelligence (philosophical smart):
Individuals with high existential intelligence are sensitive to life questions such as “What happens when we die?”. They make critical and strong thinkers who are not afraid of abstract or different ideas, instead searching for meaning in things. Hence, they would strive in roles that require someone reflective such as philosophers, teachers, and yoga instructors.
(Marenus, 2024; Northern Illinois University, 2020; Nuzzi, 2024; PTC, n.d.).
Application in Learning.
In a culture that traditionally prioritizes linguistic and logical-mathematical intelligence, the Theory of Multiple Intelligences can bring about recognition to the other forms of less celebrated strengths. As individuals, we get to understand our abilities and better develop a well-rounded sense of self. As a community, it helps to recognize others’ strengths and foster respect, empathy, and cooperation (Marenus, 2024). As educators, we can use this knowledge to improve student learning through pluralizing instructions and modes of classes (Northern Illinois University, 2020).
Below are some ways to incorporate the Theory of Multiple Intelligences into the classroom setting, as recommended by Smile and Learning (2023):
Diversify activities – to encourage curiosity, learning, and exploration of skills.
Integrate music and movement.
Promote reflection and self-awareness.
Connect learning with nature.
Encourage collaboration – to build social skills such as listening, teamwork, and turn-taking.
Use visual and manipulable resources – to encourage the application of theory into problem solving.
As mentioned in the introduction, everybody possesses all 9 intelligences to a different degree, based on genetics and experiences. Diversifying a child’s environment provides a chance to explore their talents, develop their other intelligences, and make learning a more enjoyable process.
References
Marenus, M. (2024, February 2). Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences. Simply Psychology. https://www.simplypsychology.org/multiple-intelligences.html
Northern Illinois University Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning. (2020). Howard gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences. Instructional guide for university faculty and teaching assistants. https://www.niu.edu/citl/resources/guides/instructional-guide/gardners-theory-of-multiple-intelligences.shtml
Nuzzi, R.J. (2024, July 19). Multiple intelligences. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/science/multiple-intelligences
Piedmont Technological College; PTC. (n.d.). The 9 intelligences of multiple intelligence theory skills & career possibilities summary. https://www.ptc.edu/sites/default/files/documents/student_services/9%20Intelligences%20of%20MI%20Skills%20and%20Career%20Possibilities2.pdf
Smile and Learning. (2023, June 8). Multiple intelligences and how to promote them in the classroom. https://www.smileandlearn.com/en/multiple-intelligences-and-how-to-promote-them-in-the-classroom/
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