Harnessing Intrapersonal Intelligence

The intrapersonal intelligence of students needs to be harnessed efficiently in the classroom.

When new information, ideas and surroundings present challenges, a learner with strong intrapersonal intelligence may find comfort and security within themselves. This self-insight can be a way of understanding other people too. Access to one’s emotional life is important to tap this intelligence.

Allowing time for reflection is crucial in this process. After making a point, stop and ask the students: “How does this relate to your life?” Allow a moment of quiet reflection. You may ask them to share, write or even draw their thoughts.

Maintaining some ‘quiet time’ also helps this process. You may start the class a quiet time of 1 or 2 minutes. This allows students a private minute to collect their thoughts after hustling between classes and concentrate better on the work at hand.

Shopping centers and malls often have maps indicating “you are here,” something that most schools do not have. Consider providing an organized classroom structure that would include where to locate resources, materials, and procedures, as well as provide guidelines to complete assignments and maybe even locate the restroom. The skill of self-empowerment leads a long way towards harnessing this intelligence.

What measures do you take to harness the intrapersonal intelligence of students in your classroom?

From Professional Learning Board’s online continuing education course for teachers: Accommodating All Learners