Multiple Intelligences Theory - Essay Example

theory demonstrates that we learn the world through, spatial representation, language, logical-mathematical analysis, musical thinking, solving problems using the body or creating things, and an understanding of people and ourselves. Where People differ is in the power of this intelligence, and the ways intelligence is combined to perform various tasks, look for solutions to problems and develop in different domains (Thomas, 2009).

The variations challenge an educational structure that assumes that students can learn the same content in the same uniform way. Students learn in distinctive ways and disciplines should be presented in different ways and learning should be assessed through different means. The following are the various learning styles as indicated below:
• Visual-spatial-usually reflects in using physical space, they are responsive to their environments. They draw complete puzzles, study maps, and daydream. They can be educated through drawings, oral and physical imagery. Tools used include graphics, television, models, photographs, video conferencing video, drawings, multimedia 3-D modeling, and texts with charts/graphs/pictures.

• Bodily-kinesthetic-utilize body effectively, like a surgeon or a dancer. Awareness of the body .they like touching, movement, and making things. They communicate through body language, and they learn using physical activity, acting out, hands-on learning, and role-playing. Tools used are real objects and equipment (Ryan & Cooper, 2013).
• Musical-sensitive to sound and rhythm. They like music and are sensitive to all sounds in their surroundings. They study well with music in their surroundings. They learn by turning classes into lyrics, tapping out time, and talking rhythmically. Tools used include music, stereo, multimedia, musical instruments, and CD-ROM.
• Interpersonal-interacting and understanding other people. Learning takes place through interaction; students have several friends and compassion for others. They learn through dialogues, group activities, and seminars. Tools used include video conferencing, audio conferencing, writing, E-mail, telephone computer conferencing, and attention from the tutor (Ryan & Cooper, 2013).

• Intrapersonal-involves considering one’s own goals and interests. These students regress from others, they are in harmony with their feelings. They have confidence, wisdom, motivation, intuition, strong will, and opinions. They are taught through introspection and independent learning. Tools used include diaries, books, privacy, time, and creative materials. These students are very independent.
• Linguistic use of words effectively. These students have very highly developed auditory expertise and think in terms of words. They like to play by use of word games, writing poetry and stories as well as reading. They learn by being encouraged to see and pronounce words and read books with others, Tools include games, books, computers, tape recorders, multimedia, and lecture.
• Logical-Mathematical- entails calculating and reasoning, students think abstractly and can notice and explore patterns. They ask comic questions, like experimenting and solving puzzles. They learn through mysteries, logic games, and investigations. They study and form concepts before dealing with details.
• Naturalistic-this intelligence is portrayed by a learner who can recognize and classify animals, minerals, and plants. They think holistically and distinguish specimens and give value to the unusual. They recognize species like fauna and flora within their environment. They are aware of artificial and natural taxonomies. They can learn through the classification of activities and using relationships within systems of species. Students can study relationships like order and pattern, and look at connections to scientific issues and real life (Linda, 2008).

It seems hard to train using all learning styles. On the other hand, as we shift into making use of a mix of multimedia or media, it becomes much easier. We need to understand the learning styles, why students like multimedia, and a mix of media which is very effective. An analysis of the literature indicates that various decisions must be considered before choosing a media that is suitable to a given learning style. The following are additional elements of multiple intelligences theory;
Visuals-it helps learners get concrete concepts, such as spatial relationships, motor skills, and object identification.
Printed words-there is a discrepancy in audio’s control to print for sentimental goals. Many models do not propose vocal sound if it is not a part of the assignment to be taught (Barbara, 2002).
Sound- sound media is important to present an incentive for recognition of sound or recall. Poor readers should use audio narration.
Motion-motion is used to portray human performance for learners to copy the movement. Visual media portrays motion as the best to portray cognitive or psychomotor domain prospects by indicating the skill which can be used as a model which can be used by students to assess their performance.
Color- Colour should be provided if an object’s color applies to the material being studied.
Learners’ characteristics-these may be effective for certain learners. Although research has not succeeded in pointing out the media appropriate for different types of learners many models use this method.

Reading ability-poor readers benefit from spoken words other than from written information, readers should control the speed and print for easy review.
Classes of learning results –some of the learning categories include verbal information, attitudes, intellectual skills, and cognitive strategies. Some models recommend a procedure that can categorize the outcome of learning, media that can present the stimuli, and comes up with instructional events for teaching objectives. Read More