Multiple Intelligences as Configurations of Cognitive Functions: Critical Reformulation of Gardner’s Theory

Authors

  • Juan Francisco Calvillo Taracena Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70939/revistadiged.v2i2.58

Keywords:

multiple intelligences, cognitive functions, executive processes, Gardner´s theory metacognition.

Abstract

Objective: To critically reformulate Gardner’s (1983) theory of multiple intelligences, arguing that they are not independent faculties but dynamic configurations of common cognitive functions, regulated by executive processes and optimized by metacognition. Method: Theoretical–documentary study based on a literature review of recent sources (2019–2025) and classical references (Luria, 1973/1980; Neisser, 1967; Sternberg, 1985; Gardner, 2001). Results: It was found that specific intelligences (linguistic, logical-mathematical, musical, spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalistic) emerge as patterns of use of shared cognitive resources rather than isolated modules. Likewise, metacognition acts as a transversal regulator that enhances the differentiation and optimization of these configurations. Conclusion: The configurational model helps overcome neuroscientific criticisms of Gardner’s theory (Visser, Ashton & Vernon, 2006; Geake, 2008; López-Ramón, 2023) and provides relevant educational implications: avoiding labeling students into fixed categories and promoting the flexible and self-regulated use of executive processes.

Author Biography

Juan Francisco Calvillo Taracena , Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala

Doctor en Administración Empresarial y Capital Humano por la Universidad Galileo, Guatemala. Cuenta con una Maestría en Reingeniería por la Universidad Galileo, una Maestría en Altos Estudios Estratégicos por la Universidad Mariano Gálvez, y una Maestría en Economía con especialización en Finanzas Internacionales por la misma universidad. Es Licenciado en Ciencias Psicológicas por la Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala. Su trayectoria profesional de más de veinte años se ha enfocado en el desarrollo del talento, la transformación organizacional y el estudio de la persona humana desde una perspectiva integral. Es autor del Modelo Tridimensional para la Gestión Efectiva del Talento y del Modelo de La Bifurcación de la Conciencia Ante El Dolor. Su trabajo investigativo articula la conciencia, el desarrollo personal y las metodologías aplicadas al cambio humano en distintos contextos.

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Published

2025-11-15

How to Cite

Calvillo Taracena , J. F. (2025). Multiple Intelligences as Configurations of Cognitive Functions: Critical Reformulation of Gardner’s Theory. Revista Científica Avances En Ciencia Y Docencia, 2(2), 65–76. https://doi.org/10.70939/revistadiged.v2i2.58

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 2 (2025): Revista Científica Avances en Ciencia y Docencia

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Artículos

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Copyright (c) 2025 Juan Francisco Calvillo Taracena

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