There's more than one type of intelligence. What kind is yours?

The idea of multiple intelligence is an important part of the philosophy behind transition year. The theory holds that we each have different kinds of intelligence and that the traditional exam system does not give everyone the chance to display their strengths.

It's obvious, when we look at the world around us, that doing well in the Leaving Certificate is not a prerequisite for a successful life. We are surrounded by businesspeople, artists, athletes and success stories from all walks of life who have made it without being brilliant at maths or French.

This week's Transition Times begins an exploration of the eight kinds of intelligence identified by the educational psychologist Howard Gardner when he laid out the theory of multiple intelligence. By approaching learning by the road you recognise, as he puts it, you can unlock your potential in a world of other ways.

No 1: Spatial intelligence, or thinking in images

Some people express themselves better in images than in words - and if you can tell a story with pictures it will take you far in our image-obsessed society.

Pictures can transcend language and cut through the jumble of words we encounter each day.

Talented spatial thinkers are often overlooked, however, perhaps not least because art is considered less important than maths or English as a school subject.

Spatial intelligence makes it possible to understand visual or spatial information. This is critical reading maps, following directions and other tasks. If you can visualise a route in your mind you can think in pictures.

It's a highly prized skill for all sorts of careers. Keen spatial awareness is the secret weapon of architects, artists, sculptors, engineers, graphic designers, interior designers and film makers, such as Quentin Tarantino, director of the Kill Bill films, right.

And you don't need twenty-twenty vision: people with poor eyesight (or none at all) can have excellent spatial intelligence.

How do you know if you are spatially intelligent?

Students who fill the spaces around their notes with original scribbles are using their spatial intelligence to keep their minds active when they feel bored.

Does this sound like you? Then you could make your memory work more efficiently by linking ideas to images.

If, for example, you are studying geography, find photographs of geographical concepts to capture the knowledge in your imagistic brain.

In history, art from the period might help you grasp the atmosphere and preoccupations of the time you are studying.

Students with spatial ability may not express themselves well in words, but they could be capable of producing an outstanding photomontage that expresses understanding of a subject perfectly.

If you are a spatial thinker, use your ability in

transition year. All your projects - not just those in art class - can take on a visual element if you use design, photography or modelling to explore your subject.

Next week: bend it like Beckham - kinaesthetic intelligence