The Relationship Between Multiple Intelligences and Language Learning Strategies and Gender

Abstract

This study set out with the aim of assessing whether Multiple Intelligences profiles of Iranian students would exert any influence on their use of language learning strategies as important determining factors in the language learning. Additionally, we explored the role of gender and different proficiency levels on EFL learners’ multiple intelligences. A total number of 303 EFL learners, 164 males and 139 females participated in this study, 112 were Elementary, 92 were Intermediate students and 99 were advanced level, within the age range of 12 to 33 at Jahade Daneshgahi of Tabriz. The instruments used to elicit information for this study were MIDAS and the Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (SILL) Questionnaire. Initially, we homogenized the English proficiency of the participants, by administering Nelson English Language Tests. Results showed a significant relationship between the variables of multiple intelligences (MI) and Strategy Inventory of Language Learning (SIL). Results of multivariate tests showed a significant positive difference between the MI scores and different proficiency levels but no significant difference in MI scores across genders. a significant difference was found in musical intelligence of participants at different proficiency levels. In terms of implications of the study it is suggested that before choosing any teaching materials, educators should conduct needs analysis and test in order to find out the MI profile of the students and to avoid having any mismatch between selected topics and the students’ needs.