Learning Differences and Multiple Intelligence

Learning styles begin at an early age. Children learn from what they hear, see and do. As students further their education, their learning styles may change and not all students have the same learning style.

The theory of Multiple Intelligence is the idea presented by Dr. Howard Gardner, a psychologist and professor of neuroscience from Harvard University. Gardner’s definition of intelligence is the ability to create an effective product or service, having the skills to solve problems, and the potential for finding and creating solutions for problems involving and gathering new knowledge. From his studies, the multiple intelligences theory became highly popular with K-12 educators seeking ways to reach students who did not respond to traditional approaches. Not one person has the same intelligence configuration; not one person will learn the same way as another person. Over time, multiple intelligences have become synonymous with the concept of learning styles (PBS, n.d.). Three learning styles that students may be categorized into are: visual, auditory and kinesthetic.

A visual learner is someone who learns best by using their eyes to see information. They learn by seeing words and numbers printed in text form, or by using graphics and pictures, observing real life objects and events, and using maps, charts, graphs, and other visual aids (Keys Learning LLC, 2011). Teachers promote visual learning by using Smart Boards, white boards, chalk boards and posters to stimulate the visual learner. A visual learner may have difficulty listening to an explanation and would rather have someone demonstrate what is being taught (LearnngRX, 2003).

Auditory learners tend to benefit most from traditional teaching techniques. Many teachers u...

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Keys Learning LLC (2011). Visual And Auditory Learners. Retrieved February 4, 2014, from http://www.readinginstruction.com/visual-and-auditory-learners/

LearningRx (2003). Types of Learning Styles. Retrieved February 2, 2014, from http://www.learningrx.com/types-of-learning-styles-faq.htm

Learning Styles - Helping Children Succeed in School - University of Illinois Extension. (n.d.). Retrieved February 3, 2014, from http://urbanext.illinois.edu/succeed/learningstyles.cfm

Miller, S. C. (2000). Untitled Document. Retrieved February 2, 2014, from http://www.4faculty.org/includes/digdeeper/lesson4/learningstyles.htm

PBS (n.d.). Great Performances . Educational Resources . Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligences Theory . Overview | PBS. Retrieved February 3, 2014, from http://www.pbs.org/wnet/gperf/education/ed_mi_overview.html