1) How would you compare and contrast constructs of intelligence and achievement?
Though often linked with each other, intelligence and achievements are neither the same thing nor does possessing intelligence automatically results in a person being an achiever. Intelligence is only a part of the entire package and process that allows one to reach his or her goals. Success or achievements are met with the mixture of intelligence, hard work, and the right opportunities. At the same time, a person may have the passion and the willingness to work for a particular goal, but still not make it. One still needs the inborn talent that will enable him or her to do the work needed. Thus, intelligence is one of the many yet essential factors for achieving. It may be inborn, but it still needs to be developed to its full extent. If intelligence goes un-nurtured, then it is useless. One’s environment and learning are interdependent with one’s genes for the development of his or her intelligence, and ultimately with his or her capability to achieve.
2) How would you describe Gardner’s theory of intelligence? Do you agree with Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences? Why or why not?
Gardner believed that intelligence is multi-faceted and flexible. He attacked the idea that intelligence is a single immutable entity created by just one source and is easily measurable with math and language IQ tests (Smith, 2008; Benson, 2003).
Gardner proposed humans have seven types of intelligence: “linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, musical, interpersonal, and intrapersonal kinds of intelligence” (Smith, 2008, n.p.).
The Term Paper on Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence
... inventors, and dancers to make his case for a bodily intelligence. Gardner cites a dancer’s conviction that we all have the capacity ... would never grow in bodily-kinesthetic intelligence, while others with brain circuitries conducive to high achievement in sports may be able to ... and proportion of a building. Surely this ability is at work when I waltz out of an early Charlie Chaplin movie, ...
I agree with Gardner that there is no single, accurate way of measuring people’s intelligence because people have different talents or intelligence. Humans have their own unique mix of intelligence; they may excel in areas where others do not and vice versa. Gardner’s theory does not limit intelligence into a single box. I believe that to be true since it is unfair to judge a kind of talent as better as or more rewarding than others. People ought to know that there are different realms of intelligence. They ought to realize theirs for the sake of forming their personality, building up confidence, and nurturing their competence. Gardner wrote that people need to know what they can do to understand themselves and live productively and effectively (cited in Smith, 2008).
In conclusion, Gardner recognizes that there is no single construct of intelligence. Intelligence goes beyond classrooms and report cards, and this, I think, is the most important for people to understand.
