4 Types of Learning Styles: How to Accommodate Every Learner

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Our experience of the world varies. The variations also represent our learning styles. Since we are all different beings, we must recognize the fact that we are gifted differently and perceive things differently. Modern educators have identified four learning styles that seek to address diversity in classrooms. These strategies, if all implemented, will help reduce the gap in educational success within the classrooms. Educators are tasked with adjusting their lessons to accommodate the four types of learners that might be in the classroom.

Visual learners

How would you recognize visual learners? Visual learners prefer learning methods that are oriented to seeing and observing things. They prefer to interpret pictures and diagrams. Sometimes, they are referred to as ‘spatial’ learners. You must recognize the fact that they learn better when information is visually presented to them. When teaching them, educators should use the smartboard frequently and allow the learners to draw pictures and diagrams to express their understanding. Handouts and presentations should be handed to visual learners to aid their learning experience.

Auditory learners

These are learners that learn best when an educator reinforces the learning experience using sound. Such learners would prefer to listen to a teacher or any audio recording than write notes down. Similarly, they use their voices for clarification of concepts taught in class. In a reading lesson, they would read out loud to themselves. They are also not afraid to express themselves verbally in class when explaining ideas. As a tutor, you can reinforce this type of learning through question and answer sessions with the auditory learners.

Kinesthetic learners

These are special learners who learn through doing things. They have to experience things for them to learn. For example, they will be involved in acting events to understand concepts. They often use their hands to touch items to understand them. The best way to engage these learners is to provide practical learning experiences for them. The teachers should involve movement.

Reading/writing learners

These are learners that prefer learning through written words. They are motivated to read new concepts in textbooks. They also enjoy writing notes, keeping diaries, and reading articles. This approach to learning is easy to cater to because of its traditional approach. You simply give learners written materials to interact with and assign essays to be written about their learning.

The most important thing for an educator is to recognize the types of learners in the classroom. With this information, educators can guide learners well. At the college level, these approaches can also be used to enhance learning. In addition, college students should be prepared for professional certifications like ACLS PALS to boost their skills.