| The purpose of this qualitative research study was to explore and comprehend the role of Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences (MI) in foreign language learning by analyzing the perspectives of college students in a German immersion program at a liberal arts college in the Midwest. Data collection included 10 in-depth student interviews, 4 classroom observations, and interview data gathered from the teacher of the course. The research results of this study indicated that the integration of MI into foreign language instruction was perceived as both beneficial and enjoyable by students, who valued the opportunities to engage different intelligences during instruction. The results also indicated that the integration of MI supported student engagement with historical and cultural content associated with the language. The findings of this study support the integration of MI into foreign language teaching, and highlight the benefits of eclectic, effective, and creative approaches to teaching a foreign or second language. |
