Multiple intelligence in an online course

In what ways, if at all, do you think the concept of Multiple Intelligences can be useful to the online instructor?

Gardner (1983) proposed the  theory of multiple intelligences , which claims that there are seven autonomous brain systems that work together in complex ways; no intelligence exists by itself. Knowledge of multiple intelligences helps instructors to find ways to enhance the interplay of all of the intelligences. This is particularly true for the online courses as well. Online instructors can use this concept to make their teaching approach more comprehensive to engage the different types of learners.

The given reading,  "Orchestrating Multiple Intelligences" emphasis the need of group work, “Students with compatible profiles (exhibiting the same patterns of strengths and weaknesses) can work together to solidify and build on strengths”. The group work should be an integrated part of an online course. Students with different intelligence can team up to compensate each other’s weak areas. 

Also, knowledge of multiple intelligence can be used to develop a more inclusive teaching environment by an instructor. The given reading advocates the creation of  ‘ rich experiences in which students with different intelligence profiles can interact with the materials and ideas using their particular combinations of strengths and weaknesses’. 

The instructional strategies and course material should be designed in such a manner that they match with the intellectual strengths of individual students. The inclusive design of an online course will provide a greater access to the curriculum for all students, helping them to excel in their learning. 

References:

Gardner, H. (1983). Frames of mind: The theory of multiple intelligences. New York: Basic Books.

Gardner, H. (1993). Multiple Intelligences: The theory in practice. New York: Basic Books.

Discussion:

Savneet

I agree that group projects/work that include people with multiple intelligences can compensate for other team members weaknesses.

When we did our team project last quarter, there was a natural hierarchy that ensued based on the selection of the team lead ( Don't misunderstand, our team was excellent). Do you think that those in the group who may be weak in a few areas will be overshadowed by those with strengths in the same particular areas?

How do we as instructors make sure that the "team" actually does encourage developing those weaknesses?

Lisha

 Lisha

You have raised an important issue. I think that in order to avoid any such situation, the instructor should lay an emphasis on shared responsibility rather than on individual competition. The instructor can include different interactive or non-interactive material, that requires all team members to give some kind of input/comment. There should be a division of labor among  team members. Instructor should monitor students' progress closely. Further, it is important for all team members to know the details including what will happen if the given task is not completed. Instructors should discuss the importance of distribution of the workload overtly and early on in the process of team formation. For younger learners, a teacher can even assign roles to be performed, keeping in mind the learning styles of individual learners.

----

One interesting way to give credit for group performance is to proceed to an exam or other final assessment and, then...for every student who receives a score above the cutoff you choose (say 90%), everyone in his/her group gets some bonus points. In this way, excellent group work can add to one's grade, but there is no downside risk.

If the reward is for the whole team doing well, it's a great incentive to work in groups in the future

-Jodi