The problem this solves
“I'm told I'm 'interpersonal' so I assume math is off the table for me.”
Primary keyword: multiple intelligences myth
What you'll learn
- What Gardner actually proposed vs. how it spread
- Why self-labelling hurts motivation
- Three habits that work regardless of your 'type'
- A one-week experiment to ignore your label
The science behind it: Multiple Aptitudes
Learners bring multiple forms of intelligence (analytical, creative, practical, social, kinesthetic) to bear on a problem, and they learn better when they draw on more than one.
Why it matters
Limiting study to your strongest aptitude leaves most of your capacity unused; 'going wide' improves learning and transfer.
How to apply it
- Approach a topic analytically, then with an example, then with an analogy to a different field.
- Use both solitary study and group study for the same material.
- Alternate between reading, doing, and discussing the same concept.
Common mistakes
- Labelling yourself with one intelligence and ignoring the others.
- Teaching only to one strength out of habit.
- Mistaking strong performance in one area for general intelligence.
Read the full concept: Multiple Aptitudes.
Where this fits
Part of module A New Way to Learn.
More articles in this module
- Why You Forget What You Study : how to remember what you study
- Learning Is a Skill, Not a Talent : is learning a skill or a talent
- What Learning Really Is (And Why It Matters) : what is learning
- Learning Styles Are a Myth. Here's What Actually Works : learning styles debunked
- Growth Mindset Without the Buzzwords : growth mindset practical