Many students and people in general often ask me this question: "What is the best way to learn English?". And the answer to this question is that there is no ONE single way of learning. We are all different and unique, and so, each person has their own way of learning (not only a language, but learning in general).The key, then, is to discover which is your learning style.
There is a theory proposed by Howard Gardner (psychologist and thinker) in 1983 called The Theory of Multiple Intelligences, which suggests that there are at least 8 types of intelligence (based on sensory modalities, cognitive abilities, etc.). This theory is important because it helps identify how you learn better.
The seven intelligences according to Gardner's theory are:
- Visual-spatial: this means you are good at visualizing with your mind's eye, appreciating the location of things. When you are learning you like organizing things in charts, diagrams, you use pictures, you like colours.
- Linguistic: this is associated with words. You are good with words, written or spoken. When learning, you like speaking what you are reading, telling stories, asking questions.
- Logical-Mathematical: this means you are good at understanding complex problems. You like formulas to apply to what you are learning. You understand and use symbols and outlines.
- Bodily-kinesthetic: this means you have control over your body, your movements. You remember things if you do something about them, e.g. play a game, dance, act.
- Musical: you are sensitive to sounds, rhythm, music in general. In general, you tend to associate what you are learning to what you are listening to, you create rhythmic patterns or songs.
- Intrapersonal: you are the introspective and self-reflective type. You like studying on your own, reflecting on what you have learned, and you tend to connect what you are studying to what you already know.
- Interpersonal: this has to do with interaction. You like working in groups, role-playing, giving and receiving feedback.
- Naturalistic: this means you understand and relate well with your surroundings. You care about living things (animals, plants). You can learn better by recording data, observing, writing about experiences.
To know what your learning style is, click here.
To read more about Multiple Intelligences, click here.
The good news is: we all have ALL SEVEN types of intelligence. Of course, one type is always more salient, according to our tastes, interests, etc. But the different types are not exclusive, they interact and we can profit from them. So, now you know: take the MI test and start developing your learning style!!!
