My Initial Definition of Intelligence and My Response

In class, I defined Intelligence to be the ability to learn. In defining it this way, I had the mentality that how quickly you can pick up on something describes how intelligent you are. I still feel this is true, but want to amend my definition to include different kinds of intelligences. I agree with Gardner's multiple intelligence theory, and extend the ability to learn to each of those intelligences. If they are able to pick up on music quickly, they are musically intelligent, etc. Of course there will always be exceptions to this definition. For example, a students who learns well may be undisciplined and therefore don't learn as much as they could. Another student may struggle with learning may have the determination to dedicate tons of time to something and become exceptional at it. I do believe that everyone has some ability to learn, and my goal as a teacher will be to help the student spark their desire to learn so they can all utilize their intelligence.