3 Learning Types
I learned a long time ago that I’m an individualizer. Not only does this lead me recognize strengths in those around me, but it gives me a strong desire to develop these strengths. Because of this, I love personality tests, believe that people learn in ways that are unique to them, and when you find out what drives an individual, they become more teachable.
With that in mind, I think we need to break down the different types of learners and help them focus on their strengths. There are 3 primary types of learners that you’ve likely heard of:
Visual
Visual learners are able to process information quite quickly when presented with a graph, chart, illustration, diagram…anything that’s visual. They like to create a picture in their mind’s eye when learning and also see an example of the information that’s presented. They are typically early readers being that they easily process things in print. It helps them to write things down, make lists and use calendars as visual reminders.
Auditory
Auditory learners are responsive to sound input. The are masters at listening for content; gleaning necessary information from oral presentations. They love read-alouds and do well employing audio books and podcasts as a part of their curriculum. And, while they do well with spoken instructions, it is equally important (due to their sensitivity with sounds) to give them a quiet place in which to do their schoolwork.
Kinesthetic
Kinesthetic learners are hands-on learners. They are often driven into professions that allow them to design, create, fix, build, and/or manipulate materials. They like to handle, taste and touch EVERYTHING! A kinesthetic’s method of learning is best when they receive an example and then are allowed to interact with it in a hands-on way. For instance, shaping mountains with clay while learning Geography or performing a certain move when learning a new gymnastic skill. “Learning by Doing” is their motto. As such, it can be a chore to sit still because they are also very active learners. They also tend to want to know the reason behind everything. After all, if they're going to be required to fix something, they might need to know how it works first. With this in mind, application becomes vital, so give them the rhyme, reason and purpose for their work. This helps kinesthetic learners take an active interest (pun intended) and be invested in what they’re being asked to learn. And, while they’re often your creative types, KL's are easily bored. So, if you have this type of learner, give them plenty of variety, switch it up and keep things moving!
That being said, most learners, because of the world around them, will pick up skills from other learning types. Still, each individual will typically demonstrate a greater propensity toward and proficiency in one learning type. So, take the time to zero-in on your children’s learning types for greater effectiveness in teaching to their strengths.
