Educators are taught there are three learning styles: visual, auditory and tactile/kinesthetic. Good instruction includes all three styles so the learner’s strengths can be used and their weaknesses developed. Young learners come to our Calgary learning disabilities school too gain tools to better their reading, writing, math, and executive functioning skills.
[The following definitions were obtained from ldpride.net.]
Visual Learners
Defined:
learn through seeing… Visual learners prefer to see what they are learning
These learners need to see the teacher’s body language and facial expression to fully understand the content of a lesson. They tend to prefer sitting at the front of the classroom to avoid visual obstructions (e.g. people’s heads). They may think in pictures and learn best from visual displays including: diagrams, illustrated text books, overhead transparencies, videos, flipcharts and hand-outs. During a lecture or classroom discussion, visual learners may prefer to take detailed notes to absorb the information.
Applied:
Rocky Point Academy addresses the visual learner through one-on-one demonstration of each step the client will go through. Charts and diagrams are used to clarify information. Clay modeling allows for each concept to be presented visually.
Auditory Learners
Defined:
learn through listening…
Auditory learners prefer to hear what they are learning. They learn best through verbal lectures, discussions, talking things through and listening to what others have to say. Auditory learners interpret the underlying meanings of speech through listening to tone of voice, pitch, speed and other nuances. Written information may have little meaning until it is heard. These learners often benefit from reading text aloud and using a tape recorder.
Applied:
At Rocky Point Academy each step is carefully explained verbally by the facilitator and then by the client themselves before going on. Examples are found and discussed. Auditory orientation will be checked and corrected as needed.
Tactile/Kinaesthetic Learners
Defined:
learn through, moving, doing and touching… Tactile learners prefer to touch and create what they are learning
Tactile/kinaesthetic persons learn best through a hands-on approach, actively exploring the physical world around them. They may find it hard to sit still for long periods and may become distracted by their need for activity and exploration.
Applied:
Each step and concept is created in a three-dimensional, real world clay model. Finding the concept in the environment and role playing are integral parts of mastering the concepts.
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