Multiple Intelligences "Multiple intelligences" is a phrase coined by psychologist Howard Gardner. He theorizes that people's intelligence can be classified into seven areas: linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, and intrapersonal. In his book, The Schools We Need, E.D. Hirsch, Jr. speculates that Gardner's theory has gained wide popularity among educators because it fits nicely with the self-esteem movement and educators' natural desire to see students be successful at something ("He's lousy at math, but his interpersonal intelligence is great."). However, Hirsch offers three cautions: (1) Gardner's theory is not widely accepted by other psychologists as being an accurate classification of human intelligence. (2) Even if true, his theory doesn't tell educators how they should respond to a student's "intelligence." Should the teacher build on a student's strength, or focus on overcoming his weaknesses, or both? (3) Academic achievement requires a focus on literacy, mathematical proficiency, and general knowledge. Thus, certain "intelligences" better serve a student in going on to college and entering our nation's economic and political life. We do know that students vary in how they process information. This variation is commonly called "learning styles." Hirsch suggests that this may be useful to educators simply as a reminder that classroom teaching should incorporate a variety of instructional techniques that appeal to various student aptitudes. And, it does promote a respect for differences. But, too much attention to "intelligences" can cause a teacher, and even an entire school, to digress into fun and interesting activities that do not promote real academic achievement. Recommended reading: E.D. Hirsch, Jr., The Schools We Need, (Doubleday, 1996)