Examination of multiple intelligences in the Cisco Network Academy

Howard Gardner's research on multiple intelligences has been used in education to address both teaching and learning. With the advancement in technological innovations in society, schools are faced with the challenge of providing technology skills to all students. The Cisco Network Academy provides technology training and industry certification to high school students. Little research has been done with regard to multiple intelligences in the Cisco Network Academy. The purpose of this study was three fold. The first purpose was to investigate Cisco Network Academy semester grades and Multiple Intelligence strengths via the MIDAS-Teen survey. The second purpose was to investigate self reported Multiple Intelligence strengths and Multiple Intelligence strengths as reported by the MIDAS-Teen Profile. Study participants were enrolled in the second semester of the Cisco Network Academy in a Midwestern high school. The research methodology of this research study consisted of a mixed methodology using both quantitative and qualitative methods. While quantitative results were limited due to sample size, qualitative results revealed a great deal of information regarding student experiences in the course. This study suggested the need for reform in the Cisco Network and education in general that should start with providing students with strategies to help students understand their own learning and how to best develop methods for attainment of knowledge and skills.