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• Multiple intelligences is a theory first posited by Harvard developmental psychologist Howard Gardner in 1983.
• The theory suggests human intelligence can be differentiated into the following modalities: Verbal-linguistic intelligence, Logical-mathematical intelligence, Spatial-visual intelligence, Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence, Musical intelligence, Interpersonal intelligence, Intrapersonal intelligence, Naturalist intelligence, and Existential intelligence.
• Verbal-linguistic intelligence is the ability to learn new languages and use language to achieve goals, for example, analyzing facts and preparing a speech to deliver in front of a group.
• Logical-mathematical intelligence is the ability to analyze problems logically and solve abstract problems, for example, using mathematical concepts to solve a real-life mortgage scenario.
• Spatial-visual intelligence is the ability to use visual aids to arrive at a solution, for example, using a tool like Photoshop to design a new logo for a fictional client.
• Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence is the ability to use the entire body and engage in movement to skillfully address a challenge, for example, performing CPR on a mannequin.
• Musical intelligence is the ability to produce and analyze pitch, rhythm and sound, for example, asking students to produce and edit a podcast episode or write a song showcasing their learnings from a course.
• Interpersonal intelligence is the ability to detect and explore the intentions, moods and desires of others, for example, preparing a sales pitch with product discovery questions for a stubborn client.
• Intrapersonal intelligence is the ability to fully understand oneself and to effectively regulate one’s own life and emotions, for example, asking students to reflect on what their career goals are and what steps they’re taking to meet their goals.
• Naturalist intelligence is the ability to recognize and classify the various plant and environmental species in one’s surroundings, for example, asking students to label five different plants using their scientific name after a trip to a greenhouse.
• Existential intelligence is the ability to ask deep and critical questions about the broader human experience, for example, asking students, “why are you here?”