Education, which is the process of revealing and developing an individual’s intellectual, emotional and physical potential, is a service field in which many studies are carried out consistently on the account of the fact that it has the power to transform societies. Along with the changing needs, aims, and life standards of societies, there have also been changes in educational objectives and approaches.  Over time, perception of education being grounded on the “authority” has given way to perception of education being grounded on the “learner”. Concepts such as “active teaching – learning” and “learning-friendly environments”, which have recently taken their place among the concepts of educational sciences, are the techniques and key words of this change.

While the Theory of Multiple Intelligences supported and developed by educational psychologist Howard Gardner took its place in literature as a contemporary educational scientific approach, it profoundly affected views and thoughts in education and other disciplines around the world, which revolutionized the quality of education. The Theory of Multiple Intelligences is a contemporary theory which attempts to systematically explain the interrelated data involving intellectual structures affecting the learning ability of an individual and the procedures which a teacher follows for a meaningful and functional approach in the teaching – learning activities process.

Since it embodies Faculty of Education, which involves following and carrying out  educational research, theories, and applications, Mehmet Akif Ersoy University presents the theory at issue in the form of a seminar program on May 23rd and 24th, 2009.  Educational psychologist Howard Gardner will be in attendance and participate along with other scientists and researchers knowledgeable on the subject.

With the help of this book, in which there are the papers presented in “The 1st International Conference of Living Theorists: Howard Gardner”, researchers and others interested in the field will be able to study the teaching – learning process while becoming closely acquainted with Howard Gardner and developing a better understanding of the valuable information related to the theory from the scientist himself.  The information presented will allow those who are concerned with the field to follow the studies carried out in the Theory of Multiple Intelligences and the subjects related to it. In addition, it has the potential to be utilized as a reference resource for studies which may be conducted in the future.

During its third year of foundation, our university is proud to present and host this meaningful and important scientific meeting.  This conference is of great historical value to our university and I would like to convey my sincere appreciation and thanks to those who helped to make this meeting possible.

Prof. Gökay YILDIZ
Honorary President, Rector