Selected aspects of Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences as perceived by students of pedagogy in preschool and early primary education

Abstract

The article focuses on selected types of intelligence proposed by Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences, specifically: interpersonal, intrapersonal, existential and moral-ethical intelligence. Brief theoretical and methodological considerations related to the subject matter are followed with the results of the author’s own research assessing both the participants' knowledge of the theory and their willingness to develop these types of intelligence in course of their work with children in kindergarten and primary school grades I-III. The respondents’ opinions are then briefly discussed in relation to various aspects of social and moral development of children at early stages of education. Finally, conclusions from the current study are presented along with pedagogical recommendations for preschool and early primary school teachers.