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As with all theories in education, multiple intelligences theory has its critics. Some maintain that longitudinalstudies still bear out the power of genetics and intelligence as a fixed quantity. They argue that this theory apologizes for lack of intellectualachievement. Others argue that the ability to measure or test for such intelligences undermines its core assertions. In short, such criticsclaim: "If you can't test it, it's not valid."
Dr. Gardner contests such claims of validity by arguing for a different view of standardized testing that is not biased infavor of only one kind of intelligence at the expense of others. He also notes the achievements of students in non-academic settings and the tragedy ofexclusion that results when whole segments of the population are not served because their intelligences do not have the opportunity for expression.
Implications of Multiple Intelligences for Schools
In terms of Culture it means support for diverse learners and hard work; acting on a value system that maintains that diverse students can learn andsucceed; that learning is exciting; and that hard work by teachers is necessary.
In terms of Readiness it means awareness-building for implementing multiple intelligences. Building staff awareness of multipleintelligences and of the different ways that students learn.
Rather than using the theory as an end in and of itself, multiple intelleigences can be used as a Tool to promote high-quality student work
It can foster Collaboration - informal and formal exchanges - sharing ideas and constructive suggestions by the staff.
It allows for Choice - meaningful curriculum and assessment options; embedding curriculum and assessment in activities that are valued both bystudents and the wider culture.
It employs the Arts to develop children's skills and understanding within and across disciplines.
SUGGESTED READINGS
Index of Learning Styles (no need to fill out the questionnaire - just read the questions) - online only
Multiple Intelligences Reaches the Tibetan Village
PDF Files:
Mutiple Intelligences Reaches the Tibetan Village
HOW TO GET TO THE ONLINE INVENTORY:
To explore you intelligences, click here . Read the screen that comes up, especially the directions under the title "Explore Your Intelligences" and click on the button at thebottom of that screen that says "Continue."
In this interactive activity, you will see that each person has all of the intelligences in varying degrees. This is intended tobe a fun exercise - answer the questions to the best of your ability. At the end of the activity, a unique "Multiple Intelligences Self-Profile" will begenerated. The results are not absolute indicators of intelligence - they are simply meant to give you the opportunity to learn more about your uniquecombination of intelligences.
GOAL: To apply what you have learned about Multiple Intelligences to one lesson plan to be used in your classroom.
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