The Application of Multiple Intelligences Theory in South Korea

Abstract

This study sought to determine whether Korean young children exhibit distinct profiles of intellectual strengths and weaknesses based on Project Spectrum, and to find the working style differences of children among strength, no strength/weakness and weakness domains. Project Spectrum helped to find in which domains each child had strength and/or weakness. Most children had some strength or weakness and showed relative strong and weak domains on a personal level. The study also showed that performances of children in domains of strength compared with domains of no strength/weakness and weakness were characterized by ‘easy to engage’, ‘confident’, ‘focused’, ‘persistent’ and ‘reflective on own work’. It was concluded that identification and development of children’s strengths is one of the most effective and desirable ways to get children to have positive working styles. The educational implications of multiple intelligences theory pertaining to the South Korean educational system are considered further.