Studies show that everyone has a unique way of learning and retaining information. However, putting one down for learning differently can deter their self-esteem and render them uninspired to learn and improve no matter what kind of learning technique they have.
There are four types of learners:
Visual Learners
Visual learners are characterized by the following:
• They tend to be fast talkers.
• They exhibit impatience and have a tendency to interrupt.
• They use words and phrases that evoke visual images.
• They learn by seeing and visualizing.
Their learning styles include the use of demonstrations and visually pleasing materials.
Auditory Learners
Auditory learners are characterized by the following:
• They speak slowly and tend to be natural listeners.
• They think in a linear manner.
• They prefer to have things explained to them verbally rather than to read written information.
• They learn by listening and verbalizing.
Their learning strategies are planned and delivered in the form of an organized conversation.
Read-Write Learners
Read-write learners are characterized by the following:
• They prefer for information to be displayed in writing, such as lists of ideas.
• They emphasize text-based input and output.
• They enjoy reading and writing in all forms.
Their learning strategies include writing out key words in list form. The learners will learn by silently reading or rewriting their notes repeatedly; writing out in their own words the ideas and principles that were taught or discussed; organizing any diagrams, graphs, other visual depictions into statements and putting reactions, actions, diagrams, charts, and flowcharts into words. They like multiple-choice tests.
Kinesthetic Learners
Kinesthetic learners are characterized by the following:
• They tend to be the slowest talkers of all.
• They tend to be slow to make decisions.
• They use all their senses to engage in learning.
• They learn by doing and solving real-life problems.
• They like hands-on approaches to things and learn through trial and error.
These are the four types of learning that make up our educational system as well. However, not all teachers recognize or refuse to recognize the different types of learners among their students. Most especially parents. And kids, we’ve all been through the spanking and the lectures parents have put us through.
It is time to realize that your student, child, or friend may need a certain strategy to learn effectively. It has been proven since early child development that all children learn hands on in the beginning but as they mature we, as human beings, show signs of unique learning styles.
Usually, it is not the fault of the teacher if you are failing or getting a low grade. Find out YOUR learning style and talk to your teacher about accommodating to your style.
You can ask about after school tutoring sessions to understand the material more so you and your teacher or peer can work on problems in a way you will retain information effectively.
(Source: www.lyceumbook.com)
