Concepts of Intelligence and Logic

“The beauty of learning is that you never graduate from it.” – Brennan Claybaugh

Today, sending and receiving information is instantaneous. The way you live, learn, socialize, and do business is constantly transforming because of developments in technology and communication. Smart phones, e-mail, websites, and various apps are a part of daily life. These developments have revolutionized how you learn, think, receive information, and communicate. Even as you are reading this book, you could take a moment and search online for more information about any topic. This chapter will focus on the brain and its relationship to learning.

Learning is a skill that can be developed and improved. You can discover how to learn faster and how to make the process more fun. Here you will be introduced to ways of improving your learning and performance skills with easy, fun suggestions to help you become a better learner.  

Learn how to learn, and you will love what you learn.

Think about:

• What is learning?
• What is my learning style?
• How will I improve my learning skills?
• What is my learning strategy?

Learn about:

• Left brain vs. Right Brain
• Multiple Intelligences
• Learning Types

Learn from:

• Lyn Christen

• Den Claybaugh

Left Brain vs. Right Brain

Personality-related labels include shy, outgoing, dramatic, egocentric, charitable, etc. But have you heard of left-brained or right-brained? The human brain is divided into two hemispheres. Each half performs a distinct set of operations, such as the ones listed in the chart below.

Therefore, a talented artist may identify as “right-brained” whereas a skilled engineer may identify as “left-brained.” [cite source] Our predominate thought process usually leans to the right or to the left and can impact our personality and our decisions. [cite source]

You can take an online test to determine whether you are predominantly left-brained or right-brained. Use one of the links below or complete an online search for “left brain/right brain test” to find other tests. It’s fun! Give it a try.

https://www.arealme.com/left-right-brain/en/

Psych Test – left brain/right brain test

http://testyourself.psychtests.com/testid/3178

Sommer+Sommer

http://braintest.sommer-sommer.com/en/

Intelliscript

http://www.intelliscript.net/test_area/questionnaire/questionnaire.cgi

What did you discover? Are you more left-brained or more right-brained? ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

How will understanding the functions of the left brain and the right brain help you to become a better learner? ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Multiple Intelligences

“It’s not how smart you are, it’s how you are smart!” Howard Gardner

The theory of multiple intelligences identifies seven distinct domains of the brain each person uses for processing information and solving problems – reflecting a unique aptitude of capabilities.

Multiple intelligences documents the extent to which people possess different kinds of minds and therefore learn, remember, perform and understand in different ways.

We are all able to know the world through language, logical-mathematical analysis, spatial representation, the use of the body to solve problems or to make things, musical thinking, an understanding of other individuals, and an understanding of ourselves. Where individuals differ is in the strength of these intelligences – the so called profile of intelligences – and in the ways in which such intelligences are invoked and combined to carry out different tasks, solve diverse problems, and progress in various domains.

Think about the things you enjoy doing most.

• Do you love writing, reading or watching movies?
• Do you often find yourself counting things or working with numbers?
• Do you enjoy creating new or different combinations of color and drawing pictures?
• Do you find yourself in constant motion or find it difficult to sit still?
• Do you like to dance or create music?
• Are you constantly talking with friends?
• Do you love to wander into quiet places or watch the world around you?

The Seven Multiple Intelligences

Verbal/Linguistics often communicate with ease and understanding. They may learn and solve problems by listening and reading, asking questions, and using word memory devices (like mnemonic devices and acronyms). They frequently have the ability to remember names, dates and places, and love story telling. They generally have good listening skills and are able to use verbal and written language to explain thoughts and concepts.

Math/Logics often make decisions using logic and proof rather than emotion. They tend to have proficient problem-solving skills and see the relationship and patterns when working with numbers. Math/Logic learners frequently understand cause-and-effect relationships and learn through information analysis. It is common for Math/Logic learners to prefer the use of outlines, bullet points, and logical sequences to communicate.

Spatials may love designing and creating. They often express their thoughts and ideas through pictures, graphs and charts. Spatial learners tend to solve problems through the use of images or using mental concept maps. Spatial learners regularly see how all the parts fit together to produce results, and use mind mapping, graphic organizers and visualizations to create models.

Bodily/Kinesthetics are frequently adept at skills that demand applied learning. They have a tendency to solve problems and interpret and decipher information through action. They often learn by doing and demonstrating a defined process (demonstrating the process cements the knowledge). They usually prefer hands-on activities, as well as developing other’s ideas into finished products.

Musicals generally enjoy following a step-by-step process when working or problem solving. They may use defined tasks and procedures and are oftentimes sensitive to rhythms, tonal patterns, cadence, and an orderly environment. They may have a natural inclination to use repetition, movement, and timing in developing a thought pattern or response. They frequently rearrange processes to fit their internal rhythm, and focus on results following exact and specific instructions.

Interpersonals likely strive to be friends with as many people as possible. They have a tendency to solve problems by processing information through group discussion and interacting with others. They are often able to uplift a group and tend to welcome everyone’s ideas. They usually enjoy having people around them and work well with others in a team environment. They may be sympathetic to the needs of other people, and respond to the temperament of individuals.

Intrapersonals are frequently inclined to create their personal space and may be very aware of changes that affect their surroundings. They have a tendency to perceive emotional and intellectual stimuli and recall personal experiences (empathy) when relating to others. They regularly provide a wide perspective of possible ways to solve a problem before deciding on the best solution. They will likely continue to try to improve an idea or concept after others have considered the problem solved. They oftentimes enjoy developing ideas independently before sharing their work with others.

Intelligence Profiles

The greatest potential of a multiple intelligences approach grows from the concept of a profile of intelligences uncovered by the The MI3 Talent Key. Intelligences are not isolated; they interact with one another (in an individual and between people) to yield a variety of outcomes. Each person’s intelligence profile consists of a combination of relative strengths and weaknesses among the different intelligences: Verbal/Linguistic, Math/Logic, Spatial, Bodily/Kinesthetic, Musical, Interpersonal, Intrapersonals.

Activity – Take the The MI3 Talent Key and write your results here___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Based on your results

How will you become a better learner? ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

How can you become better at communicating with others? ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What Is Learning?

Learning involves your personality, brain function, action, social skills, openness, focus, motivation, effort and discipline. What you learn is a choice and is completely up to you.

There are many ways to learn. Some people like to learn in very traditional ways, similar to how they learned in high school. Some see learning as a discovery process, and others like to learn by connecting with people. There is no right or wrong way to learn. The key to your success is in figuring out how you like to learn and then getting really good at the process.

You can quickly learn any new skill to improve your performance by becoming a super learner. Super learners are people who have mastered the skill of learning. Yes, learning is a skill just like reading, cutting hair, doing makeup, giving a massage or doing a pedicure. Once you learn how you learn best, you can confidently tackle any subject with success.

Becoming a super learner means that you are open and willing to try on new ideas. It also means that sometimes you have to let go of what you already think you know. Super learners are successful because they are open to new ideas.

There are many beliefs or myths about education that may block your learning. They include believing that:

• You can only learn from an expert or the teacher.
• It’s not good to make mistakes.
• You look dumb when you ask questions.
• It is hard to learn new information and skills.
• Cramming your mind full of details is learning.
• Learning is boring and time-consuming.

What do you believe about learning? Your assumptions may be holding you back from truly enjoying the learning process. Learning is a life skill that will bring you opportunities for success, satisfaction, and adventure.

What are your beliefs about learning? Write them down. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

A New Definition for Learning

Did you know that you are always learning? As a matter of fact, you cannot not learn. You are a learning machine. You just have to know what makes you as the learning machine work at your most efficient capacity.

The way we think and learn is being researched now more than ever before. As new methods of teaching and learning are developed, you will be asked to change as a Learner. Here are some ways you will want to grow:

Learn how to ask questions – Young children are always asking questions. Questioning is an important part of learning. Throughout the process of learning, you should constantly ask questions and persistently search for answers.

Search for the information – Don’t wait to be taught, take charge of your learning. Learning is a verb, which means you need to take action. Don’t check out during the learning process. Stay focused and learn from your co-workers, classmates, clients, videos, books, magazines, demonstrations, the internet and lectures.

Define your learning style – There is not just one way to learn. We each have a unique learning style and preferences. Define what works for you as a Learner and do it. Master your unique learning approach, then be flexible and try on new ways to learn.

Acknowledge your feelings while you learn – Learning is emotional as well as intellectual. Your emotions about who you are learning with, how you are learning, and what you are learning can either help you or keep you from learning. Your emotions help you to remember what you have learned. The stronger your feelings about what you are learning, the longer and more vividly you will remember it. Positive learning experiences make you feel happy, interested, and secure. You are motivated and focused. If something is not working and you find yourself not enjoying the process, then change it.

Guiding Principles

Educators have taken much of the new research on learning and applied it to school curriculums. They created a list of learning values and beliefs called the Guiding Principles. This list may help you to change your beliefs about the learning process and your role as a Learner.

1. Education is an adventure of discovery.
2. Effective learning starts with a game plan, which helps you to focus on taking action.
3. Learning is blocked when fear is present. Let go of your fears and try on what you are learning.
4. Making a mistake is not fatal. You make discoveries,

not mistakes. Learn to embrace your discoveries and make them part of the learning process.

5. You learn best when you are having fun.
6. Learning success is based on changing your behavior and beliefs. Learning is a verb, so put your knowledge into action.
7. You are uniquely intelligent and have your own style of learning. Find a learning strategy that best fits what you like and how you prefer to learn and follow it. When you honor your special qualities, you automatically become more successful.
8. You learn best when you are physically, emotionally, mentally, and creatively involved.
9. The learning process is neither good nor bad; it simply is working or not working. If it is working, improve it. If it is not working, change it.
10. Recognizing your personal successes encourages you to learn more. Praise and rewards are everyone’s best motivators.
11. The most effective Learners have learned to think for themselves. They don’t wait to be told. They have taken responsibility for what and how they are learning.

What is your favorite Guiding Principle and why? Write your answer here.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Connecting to your future is a journey filled with discoveries, not failures. Adopt thoughts that will keep your learning positive and productive.

Your Learning Style

Super learners are successful because they are open and willing to learn. In this section you will learn how to improve as a Learner. Remember that you are learning all the time. Learning is a natural process that is the result of your experiences. Your learning has a cycle that has been outlined by educational expert Dr. Bernice McCarthy. Her learning theory explains that we all experience learning in phases that can be defined by four basic questions: Why? What? How? and What if?

You can improve your learning by asking yourself questions such as:

• Why do I need to know this information? Why is it important?
• What is the information I need to know and master?
• How do I learn it? How do I perform the steps?
• What if I did it differently? What if I created my own methods?

Let questions guide your learning. When you are truly interested in something you naturally ask a lot of questions. Your questions guide and help you to learn more. Here is an example of how you can use questions to guide your learning of finger waving.

Improve your comprehension. Answer all four questions each time you learn something new. When you take advantage of each learning phase, you will find that you can learn faster, while having fun.

There Is No Wrong Way to Learn

You are unique as a Learner because of your personality, approach, and preferences. You may prefer a certain aspect of learning over others. For example, you may prefer to jump right into what you learn, or you may choose to study all of the information thoroughly before you start applying your knowledge. Your unique approach to learning is called your learning style.

Your learning style defines how you learn. It describes what you prefer and predicts how you may respond during the learning process. The following are descriptions of four basic learning styles. Read through all the descriptions and check the ones that best describe you. You may select descriptions from different learning styles. It is possible to have more than one learning style.

What’s Your Learning Style?

Check the traits below that describe you most.

If you are a Feeler learner:

Feelers primarily learn by relating to and connecting with others. You perceive the learning process as emotional. When in balance, you love to work in groups and are very social. When out of balance, you withdraw and do not participate.

• You naturally ask, “Why do I need this information?” or “Why is this important?”
• You need to know the meaning of what you are learning and how it relates to you.
• You need to know the benefits of what you are learning.
• You are social and like to work with partners or in groups while learning.
• You seek an emotional connection to what you are learning, your teachers, and fellow learners.
• You learn through relationships.
• You need to be in a harmonious and cooperative learning environment.
• You are sensitive to criticism and unsolicited feedback, preferring a gentle approach when being coached.

If you are a Thinker learner:

Thinkers primarily learn by thinking and assimilating information. You need time to reflect and process what you are learning internally before you apply it. When in balance, you are a detailed and focused listener and learner. When out of balance, you focus too much on unimportant information, or you become critical.

• You naturally ask, “What do I need to know to perform better?”
• You love facts and details.
• You want an organized learning environment.
• You want to understand the reason things work.
• You like things sequential, methodical, logical, and systematic.
• You need to learn the concepts and facts thoroughly before you are comfortable performing.
• You may seek perfection.
• You learn by problem-solving and thinking things through.
• You like to research and find information.
• You like to reflect on what you have been learning.
• You like specific and detailed feedback and coaching.

If you are a Driver learner:

Drivers learn by doing and by actively pursuing new skills. You like taking risks and making discoveries. You see learning as an active process and like to learn things quickly. When you are in balance, you are open to feedback and coaching and like to lead learning activities. When you are out of balance, you can be disruptive and impatient.

• You naturally ask, “How do I perform it?” or “What are the steps in doing it?”
• You learn best by doing.
• You love to jump right in and figure it out. You detest long, drawn-out explanations or lectures.
• You like to identify step-by-step procedures.
• You learn best when you are active. You like role-playing, simulations, and rehearsals.
• You are the first to put things to use when they are useful.
• You use common sense to problem solve.
• You want a basic overview of what you are learning and do not need every little detail.
• You like demonstrations and workshops and welcome hands-on coaching.

If you are an Inventor learner:

Inventors learn by creating. You love to tweak, adapt or change what you are learning. You experiment, and make it your own. You truly think outside of the box. When you are in balance, you add creativity and a fresh perspective. When you are out of balance, you are unfocused, distracted, and all over the map.

• You naturally ask: “What if I did it differently?” or “What else do I need to learn to be more creative?”
• You learn best by creating and inventing new methods.
• You are not satisfied with the traditional ways of using information or performing tasks.
• You learn by being innovative.
• You want to explore all of the opportunities.
• You want to improve what you are learning or create a new way to learn.
• You like to implement, then improve your work.
• You learn through experimentation.
• You like coaching and feedback on the end product and on your creativity.

Did you check more descriptions under one learning style than under the others? Write down what your learning style is here. ______________________________________________________­_

How will knowing your learning style help you identify learning opportunities? ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Stretch Your Learning Style

Don’t allow your learning to become boring. Step out of your box and stretch your style. Become flexible in your approach to learning and find new ways to learn. For example:

If you are a feeler, take more risks, jump right in, and learn from your discoveries. Be open to more feedback, and try not to take criticism or coaching personally.

If you are a thinker, step out of your box and let go of how things are “supposed to be.” Become more creative and explore different aspects of what you are learning.

If you are a driver, try to become more detailed, more like a thinker.

If you are an inventor, learn to work and collaborate with others, become more like a feeler, or become more systematic like a thinker.

By stretching yourself, your learning will become more interesting, and you will become well-rounded. You may discover something about yourself through the process.

Now that you know your style, create a learning strategy that fits your needs. Don’t wait for someone to accommodate you. Ask for help, and give your instructor feedback about what you like and how you learn.

Stretch Your Style

To improve your learning, approach it from various perspectives. If you like to learn as a thinker, try learning as an inventor. We all are a little of all learning types. Bringing out the other styles in your personality will help to deepen your understanding. Become your own learning coach and motivate yourself to become a better Learner.

What are some ways that you will stretch as a learner? ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Practice and Apply What You Learned

Every day you have an opportunity to really grow and master your learning. You may find that the more focused you are when you are learning, the faster and better you will learn a new skill.

Learning is not beneficial unless you put what you have learned to use. As you complete each learning process, ask yourself, “What did I learn from this?” and “How can I put this information to good use?”

Finally, we recommend that you make learning part of your daily life. Let go of distractions that keep you from improving your performance. Spend time each week building your knowledge, your skills, and, most importantly, your attitude. When you learn in ways that are compatible with your learning style, you will:

• Learn faster.
• Have more fun.
• Recall what you learned.
• Improve your performance.

Be a Lifelong Learner about learning.

• Read motivational and informational books, magazines, websites and materials about learning.
• Listen to audio learning programs.
• Attend ongoing learning seminars and classes.

MY BRAIN – GAME PLAN

THINK

In this chapter you learned about left brain vs right brain, Multiple Intelligence, learning and learning styles. Let’s create the second step of your game plan. Make a commitment to discover and improve your learning style. Write your commitment here. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

REFLECT

Think about what fears or obstacles may interfere with keeping your commitment. Write them here.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

TAKE ACTION

REINVENT

Make room for learning new ideas and information.

ASK

Learn how to ask questions, especially why, what, how, and what if?

STRETCH

Recognize and use your learning style, then stretch yourself to try other ways of learning.

LEARN

Learning is an active process. Take control and become an active participant. Prepare yourself to learn.

FOLLOW

Follow the Guiding Principles to make your learning more worthwhile.