Multiple Intelligences

One of the important theories that guides our curriculum development is Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligences Theory. This theory first appeared in 1983 in his book, Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligences. It debunked traditional intelligence testing as inadequate and proposed an alternative way of looking at human intelligence as a plurality of intelligences that develop at different rates and stem from different neurological patterns.

Since its inception twenty years ago, Gardner's theory has elicited acclaim in both academic and popular milieus, and has spawned a myriad of papers and studies in response to and support of Gardner's assertions. Gardner, himself, continues to develop his ideas through Project Zero at Harvard University, and has written several more books that further explain and discuss the implications and applications of MI Theory.

Today, Gardner identifies eight intelligences as follows:

1. Logical/Mathematical
2. Visual/Spatial
3. Bodily/Kinesthetic
4. Verbal/Linguistic
5. Musical
6. Interpersonal
7. Naturalist
8. Intrapersonal

By pluralizing intelligence in this way, Gardner opens the definition of "smart" to allow its application to a variety of gifts, skills, and talents. Instead of asking, "Am I smart?" the question becomes "How am I smart?" Sparhawk students explore this very question reflectively through various class activities. From our human intelligence hunt to our afternoon intelligence studies, we are continuing to learn more about the ways in which we each learn.