Most people are familiar with the theory that the right and left sides of the brain have specialized functions. This theory suggests that the left brain handles logical/linear functions, verbal language skills, and mathematical abilities, while the right brain is more artistic, holistic, and musical. Although this theory is now considered too simplistic, it opened the door to greater exploration of the nature of intelligence and how we learn. This split-brain theory was also the first challenge to the concept of IQ which mainly measures our mathematical and verbal skills, both handled on the left side of the brain.

Gerald Grow

That's what Harvard psychologist Howard Gardner decided. As a researcher and professor at the Harvard School of Education, he studied brain-damaged patients, gifted persons normal children and people of different cultures to understand the workings of human intelligence. His findings dispute the idea of one overall human intelligence. Instead, he suggests that all humans have at least seven different intelligence systems, maybe more.

For most of us the word intelligence brings up images of the kid in class who always knew the answers or got high scores on the college entrance exams. However, Gardner defines intelligence as "the capacity to do something useful in the society in which you live." This implies that the values of a particular culture often dictate what is seen as intelligent or not. For example, Western societies value logical, linear problem-solving skills and the scientific process. Native cultures value the physical prowess used in catching food, or going on a dream journey to the underworld to help in a healing ceremony.

You may wonder what this has to do with literacy education. First of all, many of our adult learners with reading and writing difficulties do not consider themselves intelligent. Yet using Gardner's definition, many are using their skills and abilities to do something useful in society. They are often very skilled as carpenters, mechanics, designers, musicians, or athletes. When you share the idea of multiple intelligences and help your learner see which ones she excels in, she can begin to recognize her own intelligence. Recognizing the intelligences that we rely on not only increases self-esteem, it also helps us focus our teaching strategies.

In his book, Frames of Mind, Gardner describes each intelligence in detail. The following chart gives you a brief description of the characteristics of each intelligence. Read these with your learner and discuss thorn in greater depth. The tutors in our program who pilot-tested these materials discovered talents and skills their learners hadn't shared before. For instance, one tutor learned that her student composed music. This revelation gave them a new focus for writing activities and gave them impetus to use music in their lessons.

Meet the Seven Intelligences

The following chart is adapted from descriptions by Howard Gardner. We have changed the names of several intelligences to make them easier to understand and remember. Gardner's label is listed below those that we have changed. You and your learner may want to listen to the audio tape provided in this kit to help understand this chart.

Multiple Intelligence Theory