WHEREFORE ART THOU, MULTIPLE INTELLIGENCES - ALTERNATIVE ASSESSMENTS FOR IDENTIFYING TALENT IN ETHNICALLY DIVERSE AND LOW-INCOME STUDENTS

The recent popularity of Multiple Intelligences (MI) theory correspond s with current efforts to move away from the use of standardized measu res of achievement and ability to more authentic assessment techniques , including portfolio and performance-based assessment. Gardner and hi s colleagues have strongly encouraged the application of MI theory to performance-based assessment. This study investigates the reliability and validity of a battery of instruments based on MI theory, including teacher checklists and performance-based assessment activities. The p urpose in developing the instruments was the identification of talent in culturally diverse and/or low income kindergarten and first grade s tudents. Results suggest acceptable evidence of reliability but raise questions about the validity of the assessments. This study has implic ations for both future research efforts and the application of MI-base d, performance measures to the assessment and identification of talent .