Today we are examining learning styles and intelligence -- what are these things, do they exist, how do they show up, and what do we do with them in the classroom? Today's questions will have two strands -- one on learning styles, the other on intelligence.
1a. Kirschner details the research on learning styles and whether or not they are something that should be used as widely as they are. Using what we have discussed previously in class about cognitive development and thinking, why do you think these learning styles are so popular? Have you seen this popularity in your own school or life, and how does it relate back to why you think these are popular?
1b. How can you as an educator reconcile the popularity of “learning style” programs with the lack of evidence to support their use in the classroom?
2a. Kaya et al. provide an overview of the history intelligence testing then introduce the connection to achievement that we have historically linked to intelligence. Discuss at least two ways to measure intelligence as cited by Kaya et al. and explore why you agree or disagree that this is a "good" way of measuring intelligence. Remember -- your opinion is interesting, but you must back it up with evidence provided by this and any other source you would like to bring in.
2b. Describe the most intelligent person you know. Just their attributes, the ones that make him or her "intelligent." (Try to avoid using identifying characteristics -- e.g., my friend Genie who has blond hair and is often eating lunch on campus at 1pm.) How do you know this person is intelligent? What do you value in intelligence, and how is that related to achievement, however you are defining it?
