MI theory allows educators, family members and society to see adult learners for the intelligences (cognitive strengths) they have, instead of focusing on what they can't do well. Increasing learners' understanding of their unique makeup will help them to manage their own learning and to value their individual strengths.⁸⁴

The eight intelligences

Linguistic intelligence

Is the ability to use language to communicate and understand other people (hearing, speaking, reading, and writing languages).

Logical-mathematical intelligence

Is the ability to think logically, utilize deductive reasoning, recognize abstract patterns, and work with numbers. People who demonstrate this MI are usually curious about the world around them. They ask many questions and like to do experiments.

Musical intelligence

Is the ability to think in music, to be able to hear patterns, recognize them, remember them, and perhaps manipulate them.

Spatial intelligence

Is the ability to see, imagine and create mental images and pictures. These learners think in pictures and need to create vivid mental images to retain information. They enjoy looking at maps, charts, pictures, and videos.

Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence

Is the ability to use your body or parts to solve a problem. Individuals with this ability have a good sense of balance and eye-hand co-ordination (for example, playing ball or using a balance beam). Through interacting with the space around them, they are able to remember and process information.