All students have the ability to learn, so how come some students learn faster and progress to greater heights than others? The answer could be any number of things, but consider this: A student who learns well by manipulating objects usually will have trouble on long exams. In this case, the student may be able to learn the material, and may even have learned the material, but the instrument to measure his or her learning is flawed for the student’s learning style.
With that said, it’s hard to be in school and not take a test, but knowing students learning differences is the first step in discovering the best ways for them to learn. There are three central learning styles: visual, auditory and tactile. Suggestions for catering to all three are offered below.
1. Visual: Since visual learners grasp and recall information by seeing it, teachers who incorporate props and other visual aids will have the largest impact on this type of learner. As the teacher gives the lesson, writing key points and words on the board will be of great service to the visual learner. They will hear what the teacher is saying, but they will remember it because they saw it on the board.
2. Auditory: This type of learning style does best when they hear information. Verbal explanations are absorbed over written out ones. Reading out loud can also help an auditory learner. Also, if possible, soft music in the learning environment can go a long way in helping the auditory learner concentrate.
3. Tactile: Using games to explain concepts, including experiments and offering hands-on crafts are the best ways to help a tactile learner. Field trips and constant tangible stimuli are also encouraged. Tactile learners should be given directions slowly and allowed to complete each piece individually.
These tips, added with the right test-taking methods, will help ensure all children are being educated as best as they can be.