Literature Review - Gardner (Theory of Multiple Intelligences)

Gardner (Theory of Multiple Intelligences)

I wanted to find further research on effective teaching methods and found Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences interesting. Gardner created a theory that differentiates intelligence into specific modals rather than seeing it as dominated by a single general ability.

Gardner describes eight different kinds of intelligence:

•  Visual: Good with art and design

•  Linguistic: Good with words

•  Logical: Good with numbers and math

•  Bodily: Good at action, movement and sports

•  Musical: Good with music, tone and rhythm

•  Interpersonal: Good at communicating with others

•  Intrapersonal: Good at self-reflection

•  Naturalistic: Good at appreciating the world and nature

In his book "Frames of mind" (2011) Gardner discusses the

different intelligences and how people learn using a combination

of intelligences. This appears to encourage teaching that uses a

variety of methods to meet each individual's learning style.

During this chapter on 'Bodily-Kinesthetic intelligence' Gardner discusses how doing/using your body can help some people to learn. This intelligence is possibly the most relevant to dance training as you are required to carry out the movements with your body. Gardner says "the dancer and the actor are but two roles in our culture that highlight the intelligence of the body". (2011:243).

Therefore learners with bodily-kinesthetic as their preferred learning style are likely to benefit the most from practical dance work (so not too much emphasis on technology). This has led me to consider reducing my use of technology tools in the dance workshop (e.g. a short section at the start and end of the lesson).