MODULE 9: How to Teach Philanthropy in the Classroom (Part 1)
The Theory of Multiple Intelligences
The theory of multiple intelligences testifies to the need for teaching and transferring information in multiple ways and, if possible, in multiple areas. We can see the benefit of creating links to philanthropy inside and outside of the classroom.
As examined on the http://www.infed.org web site, Howard Gardner (1945- ), professor of education at Harvard University, developed the theory of multiple intelligences in 1983. The implications of his research can be seen in classrooms around the world as teachers aim to educate students who have different “intelligences.” Read the paraphrased description of the eight intelligences, and then take a quiz to discover your intelligence.
Note the first two intelligences and how our culture tends to value these, particularly in schools. Gardner proposed major changes in the attitude and learning potential of students who were taught in this “language” to which they could relate.
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Linguistic intelligence involves sensitivity to spoken and written language, the ability to learn languages, and the capacity to use language to accomplish certain goals. This intelligence includes the ability to effectively use language to express oneself rhetorically or poetically; and language as a means to remember information. |
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Logical intelligence consists of the capacity to analyze problems logically, carry out mathematical operations, and investigate issues scientifically. In Howard Gardner's words, it entails the ability to detect patterns, reason deductively and think logically. |
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Musical intelligence involves skill in the performance, composition, and appreciation of musical patterns. It encompasses the capacity to recognize and compose musical pitches, tones, and rhythms. |
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Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence entails the potential of using one's whole body or parts of the body to solve problems. It is the ability to use mental abilities to coordinate bodily movements. |
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Spatial intelligence involves the potential to recognize and use the patterns of wide space and more confined areas. |
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Interpersonal intelligence is concerned with the capacity to understand the intentions, motivations and desires of other people. It allows people to work effectively with others. Educators, salespeople, religious and political leaders and counselors all need a well-developed interpersonal intelligence. This intelligence, an emotional intelligence, is critical to philanthropy and civic life. When this intelligence is developed it displays empathy, caring and altruism. If an individual is lacking this intelligence, it is important that it be strengthened for healthy participation in civic engagement. |
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Intrapersonal intelligence entails the capacity to understand oneself, to appreciate one's feelings, fears and motivations. In Howard Gardner's view it involves having an effective working model of ourselves, and to be able to use such information to regulate our lives. This emotional intelligence that produces great self-awareness in individuals is also critical to philanthropy. |
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Naturalist intelligence is concerned with nature and the environment. These individuals enjoy working or recreating outdoors and are likely familiar with the names of rocks, flowers and/or birds. |
It has also been suggested that individuals with a strong naturalistic intelligence excel at adapting and perceiving their environment as a whole. For instance, someone who is adept at living on the streets would need to have a strong naturalistic intelligence. Gardner discussed the "eighth intelligence" with Kathy Checkley in an interview for Educational Leadership, and described the intelligence as one that represented the human ability to solve problems. Imagine the need for this type of intelligence when practicing philanthropy.
“Philanthropy education helps to hone the two emotional intelligences as well as the eighth intelligence, Naturalistic. We can, and often should, work to strengthen intelligences we do not have. And although there are philanthropic endeavors to fit every intelligence, the three referenced will help to develop a philanthropic mindset.”
The Informal Education Homepage, http://www.infed.org
There is now scientific evidence that “school play” which includes athletic teams, dance, theater, music and visual arts enhances emotional intelligence by facilitating the encoding and decoding of social signals. Researchers have found that despite the social consequences of such activity, the mechanisms involved are as ‘cognitive’ as those associated with math and science activities. (Arts with the Brain in Mind, 2001, Jensen, ASCD)
Take a quiz and discover your intelligence! When you are through, consider your strengths and weaknesses and how that affects your inclination to be philanthropic.
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