Verbal-Linguistic Intelligence Among English Language Undergraduates at Sultan Qaboos University

Abstract

Verbal-linguistic intelligence (VLI) is one of the multiple intelligences that encompasses the ability to use language effectively in various ways, including listening, speaking, reading, and writing. University English courses are not limited to teaching grammar or vocabulary. Rather, it provides students with practical opportunities to use the language, think critically, and express their ideas confidently through discussions, presentations, writing assignments, and real-world communicative activities. This study aimed to identify the level of VLI among undergraduate English language students at Sultan Qaboos University, Oman. A convenience sample of 128 students responded to 28 items. The VLI scale corresponded to 4 subscales: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Although there were statistically significant differences in reading and writing skills in favor of students who have high GPAs, the results showed that the participants had a high level of VLI. No statistically significant differences were found by gender, college type, or educational level. The study recommended improving the language skills of all students through adopting various learning strategies that would boost their VLI, as well as supporting students with limited academic achievement.