Exploring Different Learning Styles
There are several types of learning styles, and it’s important for us as educators to recognise and accommodate these diverse styles in the classroom.
Learning styles are simply defined as “the way we learn” because each student will need lesson materials presented to them in a unique way in order to remain engaged.
Let’s delve deeper into the 4 main learning styles by discussing:
1) What they are
2) How you can recognise them in your students
3) How to cater to each type of learner
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Visual
Visual learners prefer to learn through images, charts, diagrams, videos, and other visual aids.
HOW TO RECOGNISE:
Visual learners tend to be avid day dreamers who enjoy doodling, taking notes, or making lists, and sometimes can be seen colour-coding. They will typically use drawing as a means of processing and retaining information and have strong observation skills to remember information that was presented to them.
HOW TO CATER:
The easiest way to cater to a visual learner is by using the smartboard, whiteboard, or a PowerPoint presentation with plenty of images and colours. Be sure to give visual learners enough time to process and absorb visual cues and create handouts where appropriate.
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Auditory
Auditory learners learn best through listening. For example, they may enjoy lectures, discussions, debates, and audio resources.
HOW TO RECOGNISE:
These students may typically struggle to stay quiet for long periods of time and thoroughly enjoy class discussions by regularly raising their hands to contribute ideas and reinforce concepts. They may also be slower at reading texts than others.
HOW TO CATER:
Auditory learners will enjoy class discussions or debates as well group activities that involve verbal exchange, answering questions, or presentations. Encouraging auditory learners to recite key facts or vocabulary words out loud will help them to remember more effectively. Try using audio recordings, podcasts, videos, or mnemonics and acronyms in your lessons.
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Reading & Writing
Reading and writing learners prefer to learn through written words. They benefit from notetaking and organising information into written form.
HOW TO IDENTIFY:
These types of learners are drawn to expression through writing and reading of articles, books, journals, and just about anything that is text heavy. You may find these learners taking notes, writing in a diary, looking up words in the dictionary, or searching the internet for information.
HOW TO CATER:
Educators can provide reading materials, assign essays or journal writing, and encourage notetaking during lectures. Reading and writing learners prefer more traditional methods of subject matter delivery and enjoy in-depth research, so be sure to give them ample time to absorb written material and take notes.
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Kinesthetic
Kinesthetic learners are “tactile” learners, meaning they prefer to use their senses while learning. They learn best through hands on experiences and physical activities.
HOW TO IDENTIFY:
These learners are generally quite easy to identify as they likely find it difficult to sit still in their chairs and may need frequent breaks during heavy study periods. They often excel at sports or dance, and love to get involved in school activities.
HOW TO CATER:
Kinesthetic learners need to engage with material through movement and touch. We as educator can adapt by incorporating interactive activities, science experiments, group projects, and role-play into our lessons. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to get a kinesthetic learner involved in the class by simply asking them to write on the whiteboard. Don’t over complicate it!
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