“When I learn something new--and it happens every day--I feel a little more at home in this universe, a little more comfortable in the nest”. – Bill Moyers
MI & Technology: A Winning Combination!
We all learn in different ways. Educators need to try to meet the needs of all children by providing a variety of lessons using various teaching methods. When integrating technology in lessons, teachers have to make sure to remember the needs of all the learners and use various methods and techniques. Using software can develop the potential of all children.
The theory of Multiple Intelligences aligns well with our present understanding of the human brain. Managing new approaches to teaching and learning requires a deep understanding of how the brain works, as well as an understanding of what motivates and engages people. Thinking and feeling are connected because our patterning is emotional. Therefore, we need to help learners create a felt meaning, a sense of relationship with a subject, in addition to an intellectual understanding. Their emotions open and close the doors to their ability to learn new information and perform specific tasks. Students are emotional about things for which they have a passion. If knowledge comes to our students through a modality of interest them, they will more likely feel that it is important. Additionally, students are most motivated to learn when they are involved in activities for which they possess some talent. Thus, if we as teachers present material through a variety of intelligences, the more likely we will reach a greater number of students. Through these actions, students will be more likely to learn, remember, and apply those experiences, thus creating positive emotional connections.
Technology and computers easily combine various media formats and can provide a variety of different learning opportunities. So by nature, technology based lessons lend themselves to teach students of various learning styles. When designing lessons that incorporate technology we need to be sure to use various techniques and keep the needs of all learners in mind, as we try to do in lessons that do not use technology.
For example if we teach Future with Going to and Will, we can design a lesson plan using a Web-Quest or a power point presentation.
Verbal/ Linguistic: Explanation and understanding through the use of words. Reading- Using context.
Visual / Spatial: Explanation and comprehension through the use of pictures, graphs, maps, etc. This type of learning gives students visual clues to help them remember language.
Body / Kinesthetic: Ability to use the body to express ideas, accomplish tasks, create moods, etc.
This type of learning combines physical actions with linguistic responses and are very helpful for tying language to actions.
Interpersonal: Ability to get along with others, work with others to accomplish tasks.
Group learning is based on interpersonal skills. Not only do students learn while speaking to others in an "authentic" setting, they develop English speaking skills while reacting to others. Obviously, not all learners have excellent interpersonal skills. For this reason, group work needs to balance with other activities.
Logical / Mathematical: Use of logic and mathematical models to represent and work with ideas.
Grammar analysis falls into this type of learning style. Match-up exercises; English Grammar review exercises.
Musical: Ability to recognize and communicate using melody, rhythm, and harmony.
This type of learning is sometimes underestimated in ESL classrooms. If you keep in mind that English is a very rhythmic language because of its tendency to accent only certain words, you'll recognize that music plays a role in the classroom as well. Practicing Stress and intonation.
Intrapersonal: Learning through self-knowledge leading to understanding of motives, goals, strengths and weaknesses. Setting learning objectives.
Environmental: Ability to recognize elements of and learn from the natural world around us.
Similar to visual and spatial skills, Environmental intelligence will help students master English required to interact with their environment.
