Types of Intelligence

Types of intelligence
1. Spatial
Spatial learners are adept at visualizing and perceiving the world in terms of space and
dimension. They are aware of their environments and possess a keen understanding of
how objects exist and interact in space. This category of learners is often proficient at
thinking graphically and imaginatively, making them great problem solvers. They
learn best by engaging with visual materials like models, charts, photographs, and
videos.
For example, teaching spatially intelligent students about the different planets in the
solar system can be made more effective by having them manipulate a scaled 3D
model online. This method allows them to better conceptualize the planets’ relative
sizes, distances from each other, and rotations around the sun.
2. Bodily-kinesthetic
Bodily-kinesthetic learners have a heightened awareness of their bodies and their

surroundings. They excel in activities that involve touch, movement, and physical
interaction. This type of intelligence embodies the connection between the mind and
body, where learners thrive in practical situations requiring hands-on involvement and
role-playing. Bodily-kinesthetic learners make up about 15% of the total population.
To teach dance choreography to these learners, for example, encourage them to

practice the steps at home. This physical repetition and interaction will enable them
to understand the material more deeply and remember the choreography more
effectively.
3. Musical
Musical learners have a heightened sensitivity to various elements of sound. They are
typically skilled at recognizing and understanding rhythms, pitches, and tones. These
individuals have the ability to transform seemingly unrelated concepts into musical
compositions or rhythmic patterns. They learn best by playing musical instruments,
turning lessons into lyrics, or listening to music while studying.
For example, teaching these learners about the stages of cell division could involve
them composing a song about the process. This creative and auditory engagement
helps them better understand and recall complex concepts.
4. Linguistic
Linguistic learners have a natural affinity for words and language. They are sensitive
to the semantics, sound, and rhythm of words and possess an innate ability to express
complex meanings through language. They learn best by reading, writing, storytelling,
and engaging in abstract reasoning.
An effective teaching strategy for these learners could be to discuss what caused a
specific brand to grow, having students debate on the topic within Thinkific
communities. This would encourage them to articulate their viewpoints, refine their
arguments, and learn from the perspectives of others.
5. Logical-mathematical
Logical-mathematical learners are masters of logic and reasoning. They have a knack
for recognizing patterns among actions or symbols and using these patterns to form
abstract thoughts. They excel at thinking in terms of formulas, equations, operations,
and thought maps.
For example, teaching these learners about international trade could involve having
them create a Venn diagram comparing the imports and exports between the US and
Canada. This task allows them to visualize the data and recognize patterns and
relationships.
6. Interpersonal
Interpersonal learners are highly skilled at understanding and interacting with other
people. They are sensitive to changes in mood, temperaments, and feelings, and they
excel at collaborating in groups and communicating ideas effectively. They learn best
through social interaction and group projects.
For example, teaching these learners about creativity could involve organizing a
Google Hangout where they peer review each other’s personal work. This method
encourages collaboration, feedback sharing, and mutual learning.
7. Intrapersonal
Intrapersonal learners possess a deep and accurate perception of their own emotions,
motivations, strengths, and weaknesses. They are self-aware and are often able to
regulate their emotions effectively. This type of intelligence is characterized by a
strong sense of self, enabling individuals to understand their own thoughts, feelings,
and desires.
These learners excel in introspection and self-reflection, and they learn best when they
are allowed to reflect on and process information independently. They prefer working
alone and typically enjoy tasks that require self-examination or personal goal setting.
Journaling, meditation, independent study, and self-paced learning are all strategies
that engage intrapersonal learners.
For example, teaching self-development to intrapersonally intelligent students could

involve setting personal goals and reflecting on them in a journal. This task allows
them to delve deep into their personal aspirations, understand their motivations, and
track their progress over time. They could also explore different strategies to
overcome personal challenges, thereby enhancing their self-understanding and self-
regulation skills.
8. Naturalistic
Naturalistic learners have a profound appreciation for the natural world and a sense of
wonder towards all forms of life. They have an ability to identify and classify species,
plants, and other elements of the natural world. They learn best by experiencing things
firsthand, making observations, and exposing their senses to nature.
To teach these learners about math tessellations, for example, showing them patterns
in nature such as the spirals in sunflowers or the honeycomb structure of beehives
can be highly effective. These real-world examples will help them understand complex
mathematical concepts in a more tangible and engaging way.
Catering to multiple intelligences in your course

When designing your course, it’s crucial to consider the diversity of your learners. Each
student is unique, possessing different strengths and learning styles that fall into the
various categories of intelligence. To ensure the best learning outcomes, your course
should be flexible enough to cater to all types of intelligences.
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Here are a few strategies to make your course more inclusive and effective:
1. Incorporate different learning materials
Integrating a variety of learning materials can help engage different types of learners.
Almost 65% of the general population are visual learners, while 30% are auditory
learners — highlighting the importance of having a variety of learning materials.
For example, consider using videos, infographics, and animations for spatial learners,
while including interactive quizzes or problem-solving tasks for logical-mathematical
learners. For linguistic learners, provide written materials and engage in discussions
or debates.
2. Practical activities
Encourage bodily-kinesthetic learners by incorporating practical activities and hands-

on tasks. This could be as simple as having students physically write out notes or
work on a craft or as complex as creating a physical model or conducting a science
experiment.
3. Interactive group projects
Interpersonal learners thrive in social learning environments. Incorporate group

projects or discussions in your course to provide opportunities for these students to
engage and learn from others. Using platforms such as Google Hangouts or Zoom for
group collaboration can be highly effective.
4. Utilize music and sound
Make use of music or sound clips for your musical learners. Transform lessons into
catchy songs or rhymes, or suggest background music that might enhance
concentration while studying.
5. Connect with nature
To engage naturalistic learners, try to incorporate examples from nature into your
course content. Use real-world examples that involve the natural environment, or even
consider hosting classes outside if possible.
6. Create challenges
Logical-mathematical learners appreciate a good challenge. Try incorporating puzzles,

logic problems, or brain teasers into your course. This can stimulate their problem-
solving skills and make learning more enjoyable.
7. Reflect and refine
Finally, always be open to feedback and ready to refine your course. Encourage
students to communicate what’s working for them and what’s not. This feedback can
provide valuable insights to improve and adapt your course to better cater to all types
of intelligences.
Remember, the aim is not to create separate learning pathways for each type of
intelligence, but rather to weave elements that cater to all these different learning
styles into a cohesive, engaging, and effective course. This ensures that every learner
can engage with the material in a way that best suits their individual intelligence type,
leading to a more inclusive and successful learning environment.

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Types of intelligence

Bodily-kinesthetic learners have a heightened awareness of their bodies and their

To teach dance choreography to these learners, for example, encourage them to

For example, teaching self-development to intrapersonally intelligent students could

Catering to multiple intelligences in your course

1. Incorporate different learning materials

Encourage bodily-kinesthetic learners by incorporating practical activities and hands-

3. Interactive group projects

Interpersonal learners thrive in social learning environments. Incorporate group

4. Utilize music and sound

Logical-mathematical learners appreciate a good challenge. Try incorporating puzzles,

7. Reflect and refine

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