There are thousands of tests available on the internet that claim to measure intelligence. Some are scientific, while others are just for fun using word games or visual puzzles. One such intelligence assessment is Gardner’s Multiple Intelligence Test (MIT).
Developed by psychologist Howard Gardner in 1983, the theory behind his test states that intelligence isn’t one single unit of measurement, but instead, multiple. This is seen by many as a common-sense approach to intelligence assessment, as most people don’t master every subject. Some may have a strong understanding of mathematics, but don’t consider themselves a good essayist. The crux of the concept suggests that just because you’re not good at one subject, it doesn’t mean you’re not intelligent.
Gardner’s Intelligences
Gardner proposed that everyone has eight types of intelligence, some of which we favor over others. (Although Gardner and his peers are quick to point out there may be many more). They include:
Musical Intelligence
Someone with a high musical-harmonic intelligence type can compose music excellently and may have many musical accomplishments. This covers all forms of musical theory. A person high in musical intelligence may be able to sing, play instruments, read music, identify the key and mode in a song, or more.
Visual-Spatial
This intelligence refers to the ability to paint a visual picture in your mind. Those who are bestselling fiction authors may have great spatial judgment since they can visualize a character or set in their mind and translate it to paper very well. Also, inventors can see their invention in their mind’s eye- helping them to develop it further.
Verbal-Linguistic
Those who have high verbal intelligence are usually great with words such as writers and lyricists. They know which words to use at the right time, and they can also easily memorize and organize words.
Logical-Mathematical
This intelligence involves more than just being good at math. Those who have the high critical thinking, and reasoning skills have high logical-mathematical intelligence as well.
Bodily-Kinesthetic
Those who have high levels of bodily intelligence are naturally adept at physical activity. This extends beyond being good at sports, however. If you’re good at handling objects, great at dancing, or even good at acting, you probably have high bodily intelligence.
This intelligence overlaps with many other forms of intelligence. For example, an artist who makes art with their hands likely has high bodily intelligence. People high in musical intelligence may have high bodily intelligence if they sing or play an instrument. From the bodybuilder to the police officer, these people know how to use their bodies well.
Interpersonal
People with high interpersonal skills often work well in a group. They can read the moods and feelings of others and are naturally intuitive in social situations. However, you don’t have to be extroverted to have high interpersonal intelligence. If you’re just good at conversation, enjoy telling your ideas, and can learn to like people, you may be good at interpersonal intelligence. Public figures usually have a high rating when it comes to this particular intelligence. Teachers, salespeople, counselors, social workers, and anyone else who works with people are also contenders.
Intrapersonal
Those who have high levels of intrapersonal intelligence are mindful and have high self-awareness. They can recognize their weaknesses, know how they’re going to react to a situation and reflect on their actions.
Naturalistic
The first seven are Gardner’s original intelligence, while the naturalist intelligence was proposed later. Those who have high naturalist intelligence are good in any situation involving nature. For example, a hunter may be more successful because they feel at home in the natural environment. A botanist may feel a special connection to plants and nature, giving them a talent for classifying and understanding plant life. The farmer’s connection with the land provides them with knowledge of how to reap a good harvest in the middle of changing conditions.
Gardner’s Other Intelligences
Gardner’s is still growing and developing his theory, researching new intelligence, and evaluating their potential for inclusion. He has considered existential intelligence, where someone thrives on questioning the role humanity has and the purpose of life. Gardner has also investigated teaching intelligence that gives someone a gifted ability to teach other people.
Questions And Criticisms
Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligence indeed provides interesting insights, but in the scientific community, many of its suppositions have not yet been verified. Some scientists argue that the results can be unreliable, or that someone’s skill set does not necessarily reflect their intelligence. Others, such as Gardner himself, take exception with the modern use of the test as a reflection of absolutes.
In the beginning, the purpose of the test was to broaden our understanding of the definition of intelligence and identify intelligence strengths in individuals. As time progressed, professionals began using the test to determine people’s projected learning styles and tailor learning curricula to fit those styles.
While the idea is well-meaning, it can be limiting, too, particularly within the context of children’s learning and development. To quote Gardner himself, “Multiple intelligences should not, in and of itself, be an educational goal.” Gardner also pointed out that people’s levels of intelligence can change with time and exposure. Just because you have a knack for verbal linguistics doesn’t mean you can’t cultivate strong logic-mathematical skills.
In short, you should not use Gardner’s intelligence test as the only way of measuring your intelligence. But it can provide a source of insight into your strengths, and where you have opportunities for improvement.
Takeaway
Overall, many maintain that Gardner’s test is worth trying, and can be a helpful tool for better understanding your personality and unique capabilities. It’s safe to say that everyone has at least one thing they’re good at, but we may not realize our strengths.
Consider the people you know. For example, you may have a quiet friend who’s athletic but also enjoys chess. Your friend may understand they’re influenced by their bodily/kinesthetic strengths but might not consider they have an affinity for logic and mathematics. They may also have intrapersonal tendencies but have never noticed they have abundant self-awareness.