Spatial/Visual Intelligence

Dr. Howard Gardner, a Harvard University education professor, developed the theory of multiple intelligences in 1983. Instead of prescribing to the traditional notion of intelligence based on I.Q. testing, he proposed the possibility of multiple intelligences. You can read about the different intelligences and find more resources about the theory here. This page focuses on spatial/visual intelligence. This information has been adapted from the book Multiple Intelligences & After-School Environments: Keeping All Children in Mind.

Spatial/Visual Intelligence

the ability to visualize and create representations of what one sees. Someone with this intelligence, like Stephon, could be called PICTURE or ART SMART.

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A child like Stephon who has this intelligence is likely to have these traits and interests: Enjoys drawing and painting. Passes time doodling. Responds well to color. Has vivid and colorful visual dreams. Frequently uses a camera or camcorder. Enjoys jigsaw puzzles, mazes, and other visual puzzles. Is better at geometry than algebra. Likes taking things apart and putting things together. As a child, played with Erector Sets, Tinker Toys, Lincoln Logs, Legos, etc. Has an instinctive ability to find his/her way around unfamiliar territory.

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