The Theory Of Multiple Intelligences Was Developed By Psychologist Howard Gardner

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The theory of multiple intelligences was developed by psychologist Howard Gardner, Professor of Education at Harvard University, in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s. Gardner’s early work in psychology and later in human cognition led to the development of the initial seven intelligences. Today there are eight or nine intelligences and the possibility of others may eventually expand the list. Why eight or nine? For one simple reason, because that the ninth intelligence, meaning the Existential one, has been alluded to by Gardner, yet has never been fully confirmed, endorsed or described.
Gardner 's Multiple Intelligences theory is a very useful model for developing a systematic approach to nurturing and teaching children and honouring their individual needs and strengths within a classroom setting. The theory of Multiple Intelligences includes the notion that each person is smart in all seven (or nine) types of intelligences. According to Gardner, each individual possesses each type of intelligence in varying degrees, stronger in some ways and less developed in others.
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By broadening one’s view of intelligence, as well as valuing and nurturing abilities other than mathematics and reading, doors can be opened by using the strength of children as a means of complementing their less developed area. Furthermore, by applying the theory of Multiple Intelligences, towards students, leads to a better understanding of them, of their needs and of their perception of the world.