Using Gardner's multiple intelligence theory to differentiate high school physics instruction

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to examine the effects of differentiated instruction on students' understanding of high school physics based on Gardner's multiple intelligence theory. The original premise was that some students are strong in some intelligences and weak in others. Each student started by learning the content in the areas they were strong in, and then using that knowledge to help them overcome the more challenging concepts. They then worked together with students from all of the intelligence strengths to show a greater understanding of the content and scientific skills. The data was collected using a combination of pre and posttests, surveys, observations, and concept maps as a part of individual student interviews. The results indicate that this approach has its merits but will need refinement to be implemented into the entire curriculum. Differentiation with respect to multiple intelligence theory appears to cause an increase in student understanding, attitude and motivation.