For a long time it was believed that intelligence was something we could detect through testing. It was believed that a person could be compared to another through the results of their IQ test. Over time, many began to question the results of the IQ test. Can the same be said for the rigorous standardized testing practices that go on around the world?
More recently, researchers have been trying to understand the different areas of intelligence (gained by a test result). Through new ways of exploring the workings of the brain, they began to consider ‘additional intelligence factors’ such as:
- Discipline
- Persistence
- Interpersonal Relationships
It soon became apparent that there were in fact different types of intelligence. They recognized that each of us is biased toward one type/group but through practice, we can develop the remaining types of intelligence.
One such theory that argues against standardized testing is the theory of multiple intelligence. In his research, psychologist Howard Gardner discusses the existence of seven types of intelligence and concludes that everyone has a small part of all seven within them. However, over the years each person develops one area more thoroughly and that area then supersedes the others.
The 7 Types of Intelligence & Their Characteristics:
1. Linguistic Intelligence
People who develop linguistic intelligence tend to demonstrate a greater ability to express themselves well both verbally and in writing. This type of person has very strong awareness and an ability to easily understand the viewpoint of others. The left side of the brain is associated with Linguistic Intelligence.
2. Logic Intelligence
People with this profile have the ability to manage Math and logic with ease. They have quick insight which helps them to solve complex problems alongside an ability to divide problems into smaller tasks and solve them until they reach the final answer. This intelligence profile is usually well organised and disciplined. The right side of the brain is associated with Logic Intelligence.
Below is a Flashcard Deck created by one of our users that discusses intelligence and linguistics.
3. Kinaesthetic Intelligence
Kinaesthetic Intelligence relates to the ease of bodily expression. This kind of person has a great sense of space, distance, depth and size. With greater control of the body, this person can perform complex movements with precision and ease. The cerebellum, which is the portion of the brain that controls voluntary movements of the body, is associated with Kinaesthetic Intelligence. This characteristic is present in Olympic and high performance athletes in order to deliver good coordination and motor skills.
4. Spatial Intelligence
Those who have heightened spatial intelligence have the ability to create, imagine and draw 2D and 3D images. This intelligence profile allows its group to imagine, create and see things that most others consider impossible. Professionals in gaming, architecture, multimedia and aerospace normally display a high level of spatial intelligence.
5. Musical Intelligence
Musical Intelligence is a rare kind of intelligence. People with this profile have the ability to listen to sound and music and identify different patterns and notes with ease. This intelligence group is usually known as having the “absolute pitch“. A person with musical intelligence can easily create harmonies and songs and can often learn to play an instrument alone from the simple knowledge of theory or by listening to a piece of music.
6. Interpersonal Intelligence
It is often said that people are born to be leaders. Those people are known to possess Interpersonal Intelligence. This group are practical people with a great sense of responsibility. They are calm in their ways, they know how to listen and speak but above all, they know how to use their own knowledge and power to influence people. Someone with Interpersonal Intelligence can easily identify the qualities in others and know how to bring that quality out.
7. Intrapersonal Intelligence
Intrapersonal Intelligence is a characteristic of someone that is deeply connected with themselves. This type of person is usually more reserved but at the same time commands great admiration from their peers. Among each of the seven types of intelligence, intrapersonal intelligence is considered the rarest.
What do you think? We can all agree that learning styles are different and that it is more beneficial to focus on the learning style that suits you. This way of thinking is similar to Gardners theory that we all harbor different types of intelligence.
That is why we developed GoConqr. You may memorize material better through visual aids such as Mind Maps or through the testing process using our Quiz Maker. Whatever your learning method of choice we have the tools, including Flashcards and Notes. Sign up with us today and begin developing your type of intelligence using our tools.
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