The Multiple Intelligences Theory

We learn, we communicate, we solve problems in at least eight ways.

Intelligence is the ability to see a problem, then solve a problem or make something that is useful to a group of people.

Cook School uses the nationally developed Frameworks and Profiles in the eight Key learning Areas of English, Maths, Science, Technology, PE and Health, the Arts, Studies of Society and the Environment, and Languages Other Than English for curriculum implementation. We strive to achieve excellence through contemporary activity based, child centred teaching activities.

At Cook School the staff and parents recognise that there are many different ways of learning and knowing and honours the need for every child to learn through their most preferred method.

Underpinning curriculum implementation at Cook is the theoretical base of Multiple Intelligences. Cook School recognises that there are many different ways of learning and knowing and we value not only the need, but the right, of every child to learn through their own preferred learning style.

Cook School is unique in not only recognising the importance of valuing each individual's learning method, but implementing this through Multiple Intelligence teaching. Howard Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligence identifies that there are many forms of intelligence and that people have varying strengths and combinations of these. Gardner has currently outlined at least seven forms of intelligence. This theory challenges traditional views of intelligence and multi-faceted. It recognises that we communicate, learn and solve problems in a least seven ways.

Gardner suggested that each individual possesses a unique blend of seven intelligences. While the intelligences are discrete in terms of their existence in the brain, "real world" activities inevitably involve a blend of intelligences. It is unlikely that the intelligences can operate in pure form in everyday functioning.

Gardner says there could be more intelligences, eg the Naturalist, which Gardner identified in 1997.

This theory is seen at Cook School to be an ideal framework to use in ensuring good teaching practices and improved outcomes (results) for students. Multiple Intelligences theory is seen to be the best answer to Social Justice issues. It provides a framework to extend children who are talented and gifted and also for children requiring assistance.

At Cook School, the agreed aim is to develop each child to his or her greatest potential. Multiple Intelligences provides the framework for being able to ensure this is done and underpins curriculum implementation at Cook.

Educational standards are raised when accommodating non traditional talents by offering a wider variety of opportunities for success. We have recognised at Cook School our obligation to help children develop all their intelligences.

Intelligences can be identified, amplified, taught, and applied. This process is not subject specific. For example,

Verbal/Linguistic Intelligence can be developed in maths lessons eg stories with time, lines, story maps;

Logical/Mathematical Intelligence can be developed in drama by scheduling rehearsals, measuring for sets, scale models, estimating costs, budgeting;

Visual/Spatial Intelligence can be developed through studies of society eg models, map making, illustrations;

Musical/Rhythmic Intelligence can be developed through science and technology eg the study of vibration and making of instruments;

Bodily/Kinaesthetic Intelligence can be developed through music eg singing and clapping, rap songs and dance;

Interpersonal Intelligence can be developed through co-operation and team learning strategies used in any subject and group problem solving work;

Intrapersonal Intelligence can be developed through peer tutoring, buddy systems etc.

This multiple choice approach to teaching at Cook School is based on the community's strong sense of social justice and belief that all children should be given opportunities to stay on their own preferred paths to excellence.

Judy Perry '96 (Principal)

(1)Gardner,H. "Frames of Mind" 1983
(2)Vialle, W., Perry, J. "Nurturing Multiple Intelligence in Australian Classrooms" 1995.

Gardner's Eight Intelligences are described in more detail in the links to the left.