During group session last Friday we discussed two very interesting theories. Constructivist Cognitive Theories of Instruction and Multiple 9 Intelligences Theory. I am a supporter or both theories. Constructivist Cognitive Theory simply means that learners gain knowledge and meaning from actively participating in the teacher's instruction. Instead of the teacher lecturing to the student, he would instead try to guide the student and allow him the opportunity to develop his own knowledge and conclusion. Assessments in this theory are not solely based on written tests. I believe that lecturing and assigning book work does translate to learning. Information is not retained that way. Information is retained by actively actively thinking about a topic and performing different tasks designed around it. Constructivism makes the brain work instead of just trying to make it remember bits and pieces of information for a test.
The second theory we discussed is Multiple Nine Intelligences Theory. Howard Gardner developed the theory. This theory teaches that intelligence can and should be measured depending on a person's abilities. Gardner believes intelligence should be determined by factors other than being knowledgeable in standard subject areas (math, science, reading, etc.) . Standardized tests do not determine intelligence because some forms of intelligence can't be measured using a test. Below are the categories he created for each different intelligence.
VISUAL/SPATIAL - capacity to think in images and pictures, to visualize accurately and abstractly.
VERBAL/LINGUISTIC - well-developed verbal skills and sensitivity to the sounds, meanings and rhythms of words.
MATHEMATICAL/LOGICAL- ability to think conceptually and abstractly, and capacity to discern logical or numerical patterns.
MUSICAL/RHYTHMIC -ability to produce and appreciate rhythm, pitch and timber.
INTRAPERSONAL- capacity to be self-aware and in tune with inner feelings, values, beliefs and thinking processes.
INTERPERSONAL - capacity to detect and respond appropriately to the moods, motivations and desires of others.
BODILY/KINESTHETIC - ability to control one's body movements and to handle objects
NATURALIST- ability to recognize and categorize plants, animals and other objects in nature
EXISTENTIAL - sensitivity and capacity to tackle deep questions about human existence, such as the meaning of life, why do we die, and how did we get here.
I appreciate what Gardner developed. The world would be a very boring place if we did not value intelligences besides being "book smart". The world has advanced throughout time because of free thinkers who excel in their field, whether that be math, sports, or music. I do not like the notion that if someone is great at math and another is a great piano player, then the math person must have the higher intelligence of the two people. Intelligence should be looked at from multiple angles. This is exactly what Gardner did when he created his theory. This theory gives value to people who's contributions to society are usually under appreciated.
I hope teachers begin using this theory to evaluate their students. I understand the need to have standardized testing and standards to follow, especially in public school. However I think teachers should use their common sense to see some students are intelligent in other areas. Teachers should try to build on the skills their students have. This will build the students confidence and hopefully that confidence will translate to other subject areas.
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