Howard Gardner, a professor at Harvard University, hypothesizes that people are capable of eight unique ways of information processing. Information processing is the person's preferred intellectual approach to assimilating facts, information, and knowledge.

Gardner suggests that individuals should be encouraged to apply their preferred intelligences in learning. Learners who have an understanding of their own particular learning styles can reflect on how to utilize their learning strengths and cultivate their less dominant ones. A key point in multiple intelligence theory is that most people can develop all eight of the intelligences to a relatively competent level of mastery.

"We are all able to know the world through language, logical mathematical analysis, spatial representation, musical thinking, the use of the body to solve problems or to make things, and an understanding of ourselves and of others. Where individuals differ is in the strength of these intelligences: the so-called profile of intelligences - and in the way such intelligences are invoked and combined to carry out different tasks, solve diverse problems, and progress in various domains," - Howard Gardner, 1991.


The eight intelligences in Gardner's model are all considered to be cognitive capacities. They include:

• Linguistic-Verbal Intelligence.
• Logical - Mathematical Intelligence.
• Spatial - Visual Intelligence.
• Bodily - Kinaesthetic Intelligence.
• Musical Intelligence.
• Intrapersonal Intelligence.
• Interpersonal Intelligence.
• Naturalistic Intelligence.

Quickly assess your eight Multiple Intelligences using this handy workbook. Once you discover the strength of your various intelligences, turn to the Strategy pages to figure out the best choices for studying, problem solving, researching, learning, developing and reflecting for you. As well, learn key time management, study planning and other tips for getting the most from your education and study.