Introduction to Learning Styles
Learning styles refer to how students prefer to learn and process information. Every student learns in different ways. Some students learn better in groups and some learn better by themselves. Similarly, some can read books and remember all the facts. Sometimes, they feel that they are not suited to a particular learning style. So, students can study and learn better in the future by using a variety of learning styles. That is more suitable for them among the seven main styles of learning.
Let’s explore the seven different learning styles, the credit goes to Howard Gardner for his work. Why are students’ learning styles so important? For teachers, it’s important to know your students, especially their strengths. So, what is the best way to get an individual student to process and absorb information? Then, teachers can use that information to help their students succeed academically by using the following learning styles.
Tabe of Learning Styles
| Learning Style | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Visual | Learning through visual aids such as diagrams, charts, and videos. | Watching a video tutorial, studying infographic, or looking at a map or diagram. |
| Auditory | Learning through listening, such as through lectures, music, or audio recordings. | Watching a video tutorial, studying an infographic, or looking at a map or diagram. |
| Verbal | Learning through speaking and listening, such as through discussions or debates. | Listening to a podcast, attending a lecture or speech, and memorizing information through rhythm and rhyme. |
| Kinesthetic | Learning through physical movement and manipulation, such as through hands-on activities or experiments. | Participating in a class discussion, delivering a presentation or speech, and practicing pronunciation and intonation. |
| Interpersonal | Learning in a group setting or through collaboration and interaction with others. | Participating in group projects, working in teams or study groups, engaging in debates or discussions. |
| Logical | Learning through logical reasoning and problem-solving. | Solving puzzles or brainteasers, working on math problems, analyzing cause and effect relationships. |
| Interpersonal | Learning in a group setting or through collaboration and interaction with others. | Participating in group projects, working in teams or study groups, engaging in debates or discussions. |
Visual Learners (Seeing)
From teachers’ experience, Visual learning is one of the most popular learning styles in the classroom. It has been observed by conducting student learning style inventories. These students prefer to learn through:
- Flow charts
- Diagrams
- Mind maps
- Infographics
Visual students get careers in video art and architecture. They have great spatial recognition and can visualize information on a large scale as well as on a small scale.
Auditory Learners (Aural)
This auditory learning style is also called aural learning or musical learning. The students who love music understand music at its best creates an emotional connection. These types of students like most:
- Sounds
- Rhymes
- Jingles
- Music
The emotional connection to sound and music leads to a better comprehension of auditory learners. Often, students with this style find careers as sound engineers, musicians, and even songwriters.
Verbal Learners (linguistic)
The verbal learning style is also known as the linguistic learning style. Verbal learners make the most out of both written and verbal words. These students are natural-born speakers and will excel when given a chance to express themselves verbally. For example, these students participate in:
- Roundtable discussions
- Classroom debates
- Sharing of ideas
- Making Speeches
Therefore, allow these students to present in front of their peers. These students are often the ones that will argue with a teacher at any chance they get. Verbal-style learners often find careers in politics, writing, and speaking.
Kinesthetic Learners (Physical)
Kinesthetic learners are also called physical learners. As a teacher try and allow the students to walk around, stretch and provide class activities. Now, some courses are better designed to allow teachers to provide kinesthetic activities in the classroom. While learning these students enjoy:
- Movements
- Exercises
- Activities
- Sports
Regarding instruction, incorporate hands-on learning activities using manipulatives and different projects. These are the students you will find playing several different sports and they are very physically active. These students will pursue careers in sports, exercise, and construction.
Logical learners (Mathematical)
Logical learners are also called mathematical-style learners. Math itself is all about simplification and reasoning when teaching gives logical learners the clearest explanation possible. They prefer very objective lessons and provide information through bullet points, and to-do lists. These types of students enjoy working on:
- Problems solving
- Figuring out Solutions
- Following to-do- lists
- Doing Practical Tasks
And give these students a chance to think strategically. Because logical learners enjoyably engaged with difficult tasks and problems. Most of the time they find careers as scientists, mathematicians, and detectives. These are the students that excel in math and enjoy a good mystery show.
Social Learners (Interpersonal)
This learning style is Interpersonal because it benefits from social interactions with other students. These learners will play off the ideas of others. And, view your classroom as a community of learners and avoid tedious lectures. Present opportunities for these students to work and learn from groups of others. So, accommodate these students in the:
- Small study groups
- Peer-to-peer learning
- Tutoring sessions
- Community of learners
Interpersonal learners have excellent communication skills. One day, these students will pursue careers in teaching, counseling, and sales.
Solitary Learners (Intrapersonal)
Intrapersonal learners are also called solitary learners because they prefer a learning environment without interaction. As a teacher allow the students to set goals and tasks for themselves as well as let them choose their topics. These students will benefit from several different types of learning models:
- Blended learning
- Personalized learning
- Flipped classroom model
- Independent learning
So, allow these students to study quietly and free them from distractions. These students often grow up to work in positions where they spend much of their time in a cubicle. Interpersonal learners pursue careers in data analysis, research, and security officers.
Benefits of Learning Styles for Students
Learning styles benefit students because they provide a framework for understanding how individuals learn best. By recognizing their learning style, students can gain insight into the methods and techniques that are most effective for them, and use this knowledge to improve their learning and study habits.
In addition, recognizing and understanding different learning styles can also be beneficial for teachers as it allows them to adapt their teaching methods to cater to the diverse needs of their students. Teachers can also design activities and assessments that cater to different learning styles to ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to learn and succeed.
Conclusion
In summary, a student who has a preference for visual learning may benefit from using diagrams, videos, and other visual aids when studying. Similarly, a student who has a preference for kinesthetic learning may benefit from hands-on activities or experiments to help them understand a concept. By knowing their learning style, students can also adapt their study environment to match their preferences.
It is also important to note that learning styles should not be used as a sole determinant in the learning process but rather should be used as a guide to help the student and teacher understand the student’s strengths and weaknesses and adapt the teaching and learning process accordingly.
