Multiple Intelligences: FAQ

What are multiple intelligences (MI)?

A: “Human beings possess a range of capacities and potentials—multiple intelligences—that, both individually and in consort, can be put to many productive uses,” (Gardner, 1999, pg. 4).

Why should we think about MI?

A: Students learn more difficult (for them) academic subjects better when teachers use their primary intelligences to present new information.

Who should use MI strategies?

A: The short answer is everyone! Teachers of all ages, including young college students, and parents need to be especially in tune with the intelligences of those whom they teach and/or influence.

When should we start/stop employing MI theories?

A: We should start employing specific MI theories as soon as our children show preferences toward certain intelligences. New approaches can be added to our teaching repertoire as we notice new aptitudes. As long as we are teaching, we shouldn’t stop using MI theories.

Where can we employ MI strategies?

A: We can employ MI strategies at home during homeschooling (or during the early years and homework time for nonhomeschoolers). We can utilize them in every classroom, including college classrooms.

How can we utilize MI for academic success?

A: Everyone has some measure of all of the eight intelligences. People are more strongly inclined to one or two than to the rest. All of the intelligences can be cultivated by everyone.