Multiple Intelligences & Coaching
Originally published in The Catalyst, March 2005
by Shaun Jamison

Coaches know that each person is unique.  Unique as to personality, gifts,
embracing change and in how they learn.  My goal in this article is to briefly introduce
the concept of multiple intelligences (MI) that was originally developed by Howard
Gardner and is helpful in understanding how people learn.  As a lens for this
discussion, I will use coaching and point to a small number of coaching examples of
MI.

The basic idea of multiple intelligences is that traditional IQ tests fall short of
capturing the holistic view of our intelligence and do not adequately predict success
in life’s pursuits.  Further, teaching/learning from a narrow set of intelligences can
greatly limit success and enthusiasm.  Gardner broadly defines intelligence as "that
ability to solve problems, or create products, that are valued within one or more
cultural settings."  Gardner has, to date, identified eight intelligences that are listed
below with examples of coaching. Please keep in mind that various intelligences can
be interdependent, so it is likely you will see more than one at play in each example.

Verbal/Linguistic – talking, writing & listening.  It is hard to imagine coaching
without dialogue, powerful questions and listening, so I will not belabor the point.

Logical/Math – problem solving, analyzing cause and effect, using analogies &
discerning patterns.  Coaching helps us discover assumptions and tolerances. It
helps us with a process of problem solving.

Kinesthetic – involving body in learning & real or simulated experiences.  Do you
help your clients role play?  Lead them in deep breathing exercises?  Take them on
coaching hikes or share a meal?

Visual-Spatial – physical and mental imagery. The wheel of life is a nice visual aid
to organize thoughts.  Visualizing an event in detail as it will unfold successfully is
another example of the use of visual intelligence. Mind maps are excellent visual
ways of stimulating ideas and organizing them.

Musical – singing, rhythm, instrumental.  Music can help clients relax or move into a
more receptive learning mode.  It can also be a way for them to express themselves.

Interpersonal – the ability to relate to others and take on roles in groups.  Coaches
model advanced interpersonal skills by not prejudging and by seeking to understand
first.  Coaches help their clients understand the feelings and motivations of others.
Intrapersonal – developing strategies, understanding values & learning from
mistakes.  Coaching in this area can include journaling, personality type inventories,
values coaching and the list goes on!

Naturalist- relating to the natural world and systems. Coaching using nature such as
nutrition, animals and hiking are examples.  Assisting a client in developing an
understanding of interdependence would be another.

This was a very brief introduction of an exciting and complex topic.  If you have ideas
for me for future articles on learning or comments on this article, please let me know.  
Reference:  Campbell, L., Campbell, B., Dickinson, D. (2004) Teaching and
Learning Through Multiple Intelligences. (3rd Ed.) Boston: Pearson