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| |    Pathways of Learning by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P. reviewed by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P. The traditional view of intelligence is that it is a quality that everybody possesses in varying degrees--and that can be measured by Intelligence Quotient (or IQ) tests. These tests focus on a person's ability to solve problems using two main areas of thinking: language and mathematics. The theory of multiple intelligences (MI) challenges this traditional view by insisting that there is more to intelligence than just language and math. Language and math are still considered distinct types of intelligences, but MI theory also recognizes spatial, musical, interpersonal, intrapersonal, bodily, and naturalistic intelligences, providing a much broader perspective of human knowledge and accomplishment. All thinking involves the connections between brain cells, or neurons. When people learn new knowledge or skills, the connections between certain groups of neurons are strengthened, while other connections weaken or disappear altogether. Since learning takes place along the pathways connecting brain cells, I think of multiple intelligences as being multiple pathways in the brain. As more and more information flows along a particular pathway (because a person is using that particular form of intelligence), the "wider" that pathway becomes. The wider a brain pathway is, the more easily information flows along it. That is not to say that all children can become great athletes or concert pianists if they only practice enough, but everybody can learn along each of the pathways to some extent. Multiple intelligences (pathways) in practice Many schools across the country have adopted the philosophy of multiple intelligences. Ideally, this means seeing each person as unique, rather than assuming that all students should learn everything using the same two pathways, linguistic and mathematical. For example, for a class on Rome, some students might write an essay, but others might do a dramatic presentation, or paint a mural, or perform music from the period. All of these would be valid ways of learning about Rome and its relationship to our modern world. Take the quiz As a parent, thinking about multiple pathways of learning may help you better understand and appreciate your child's special gifts. It also can give you insight into your own thinking and learning style, and suggest ways you can best make use of your abilities. To help you get a handle on the multiple learning pathways that you and your family possess, we invite you to take our brief (five-minute) Pathways of Learning Quiz.
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