Article

A Critical Review of Multiple Intelligences Theory

Author

김혜온

Information

pp. 1~19 / 2009 Vol.16 No.4

Abstract

Since Gardner’s criticisms of traditional intelligence tests and since the publication of his own multiple intelligences (MI) theory, its acceptance has been a subject of some contradiction. Whereas his theory is very popular (especially among developmental and educational psychologists) it has been somewhat harshly criticized by researchers from the perspective of psychological assessment. The main points of criticism are in regard to Gardner's assertion of MIs' independence from the general intelligence g factor , the domain specificity of MI, the assessment procedures of MI, and the inadequate empirical validation of attempts to implement MI theory into educational practice. This article reviews the statistical meaning of the g factor and data from biological psychology. Gardner's arguments about the purposes and methods of MI testing, his views about the application of MI theory in educational practice and the misapplication of MI theory are also discussed.

Keywords