The theories of learning generally are in the way that theorists view human nature and the ways in which human beings learn.

Within the many theories of learning developed during the second part in the second half of 20th century I'd like to draw attention to one of them, the theory of Multiple Intelligences developed by Howard Gardner. The theory was first suggested as an theory that explains human intelligence or also a cognitive theory, MI attracted the attention of educators from all over the globe due to its definition of cognitive competence as an array of skills as well as talents or intellectual abilities that Gardner described as "intelligences". Gardner's intelligences are fairly independent, though they're not entirely autonomous. The significance of MI for educators lies because they recognize that every child has a unique array of abilities and a range of intelligences.

In actuality Gardner's theory of learning is an alternative perspective of traditional theories of intelligence. theory of conventional intelligence (Binet as well as Simon's IQ). It is a multifaceted theory that focuses on intelligence. According to Gardner that the MI model relies on as a part of it, information that was not readily available in the period that of Binet as well as Simon (1908) Cognitive scientific research (study of our minds) as well as neurology (study on the brain). With MI, intelligence comes to be defined as a variety of skills. This set of classifications (or intelligences) represent elements that are found across all cultures, including words, music and logic, art and physical expression, social interaction as well as internal reflection and appreciation for nature. In actual fact, MI theory is being utilized, with great outcomes, in a variety of learning environments, thus showing how the contexts of culture can influence the way that educators practice. In addition, MI represent eight ways to master content. IM theory is, therefore is not a monopoly on logic and language as tools to learning. MI theory gives a form of framework where educators can focus on any skill issue, subject or educational goal and then develop it into at least eight different ways to teach it. It is not just used in the classroom but for a model for the science park, MI are being proven to be an effective method to ensure that learning occurs and is enjoyable.

In the beginning, the list of intelligences suggested by Gardner included seven fundamental intelligences. In later works the author included another intelligence (naturalist) and left open the the possibility of incorporating the ninth intelligence (spiritual). To develop this theory, Gardner reports that he was able to study a vast and diverse range of sources, including studies of gifted individuals, prodigies and brain-damaged patients, smart children, normal kids and adults of normal age experts from various disciplines and individuals of different cultures. The eight intelligences proposed by Gardner are defined as abilities to:
1) use language in a competent (linguistic) way;
2) reasoning logically in mathematics and science (logical-mathematics);
3) note details of what is seen and visualize and manipulate objects in the (spatial) mind; 4) understand, create and appreciate music and musical concepts (musical);
5) use one's own body skillfully (bodily-kinesthetic);
6) recognize subtle aspects of other people's (interpersonal) behavior;
7) having an understanding of the self (intrapersonal); and
8) recognizing patterns and differences in nature (naturalistic). 
According to Gardner says, intelligence is a human ability that is tied to specific world-related content (for instance, music and spatial pattern). Gardner also notes that these various intellectual forces (or competencies) have their own history of evolution. Because of this, they are valued in different ways in the various cultures of the world.

According to Gardner, specific domains or talents such as the mathematical-logical one that was extensively studied in the work of J. Piaget, are universal. In short Piaget studies the minds of children in order to see what is distinctive and general about intelligence. But, there are also other areas that are only available to certain types of cultures.