Theory of multiple intelligences

The theory of multiple intelligences (MI) posits that human intelligence is not a single general ability but comprises various distinct modalities, such as linguistic, logical-mathematical, musical, and spatial intelligences.^[1] Introduced in Howard Gardner's book Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligences (1983), this framework has gained popularity among educators who accordingly develop varied teaching strategies purported to cater to different student strengths.^[2]^[3]

Despite its educational impact, MI has faced criticism from the psychological and scientific communities. A primary point of contention is Gardner's use of the term "intelligences" to describe these modalities. Critics argue that labeling these abilities as separate intelligences expands the definition of intelligence beyond its traditional scope, leading to debates over its scientific validity.^[4]

While empirical research often supports a general intelligence factor (g-factor),^[5] Gardner contends that his model offers a more nuanced understanding of human cognitive abilities.^[6] This difference in defining and interpreting "intelligence" has fueled ongoing discussions about the theory's scientific robustness.

^ Gardner 1983.
^ Armstrong, Thomas (2009). Multiple Intelligences in the Classroom. ASCD. ISBN 978-1416607892.
^ Sousa, David A. (2011). How the Brain Learns. Corwin. ISBN 978-1412997973.
^ Gottfredson, Linda S. (1997). Intelligence: Knowns and Unknowns. American Psychological Association. doi:10.1037/0003-066X.52.2.131 (inactive 27 February 2025).{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: DOI inactive as of February 2025 (link)
^ Deary, Ian J. (2020). Intelligence: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford University Press. ISBN 978-0198796206.
^ Gardner 1999.

[FOOTNOTEGardner1983-1] Gardner 1983.

[2] Armstrong, Thomas (2009). Multiple Intelligences in the Classroom. ASCD. ISBN 978-1416607892.

[3] Sousa, David A. (2011). How the Brain Learns. Corwin. ISBN 978-1412997973.

[4] Gottfredson, Linda S. (1997). Intelligence: Knowns and Unknowns. American Psychological Association. doi:10.1037/0003-066X.52.2.131 (inactive 27 February 2025).{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: DOI inactive as of February 2025 (link)

[5] Deary, Ian J. (2020). Intelligence: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford University Press. ISBN 978-0198796206.

[FOOTNOTEGardner1999-6] Gardner 1999.

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