Learning Styles

Anne Barnette Zalubowski

February 20, 2008

Learning Styles Inventory

Many times children inherit the learning styles of their parents.

Please take a few minutes to complete this inventory (blue paper) to learn your best style.

After completing the inventory – please score it (green paper).

Visual Learner Characteristics Need to see it to know it – they like to see what they

are learning Have a strong sense of color and benefit from

illustrations and presentations that use color May be artistic Are usually neat and clean Often close their eyes to visualize or remember

things Often attracted to written or spoken language rich in

imagery Find passive surroundings ideal and prefer stimuli to

be isolated from auditory and kinesthetic distraction

Visual Learner Characteristics

Often have difficulty with following oral directions

May over-react to sounds May have trouble following lectures Often misunderstand words Take numerous detailed notes Can get distracted without visual stimuli

Auditory Learner Characteristics

Need to hear it to know it Acquire knowledge by listening or reading aloud Remember by verbalizing lessons to themselves Sit where they can hear but may not pay attention to

demonstrations Shouldn’t need to hear directions more than once to

perform action Frequently confided in by friends and family

because of their listening skills

Auditory Learner Characteristics

May have difficulty with reading and writing Often have difficulty with written directions Often misunderstand body language and

facial expressions Hum or talk to themselves

Kinesthetic Learner Characteristics

Need hands on approach to know it Often can assemble parts without reading directions Learn better when physical activity is involved May be very well coordinated and have athletic

ability Enjoy field trips and tasks that involve manipulating

materials Speak with their hands and with gestures Appreciate physically expressed encouragement

(ex. – pat on the back)

Kinesthetic Learner Characteristics

Have difficulty sitting still Need to take frequent breaks Can remember what was done, but have

difficulty recalling what was said or seen Find reasons to tinker or move when bored Rely on what they can directly experience or

perform – struggle with listening or visual lessons

Visual Learning Tips

Use graphics – charts, organizers, diagrams, illustrations

Color code notes and possessions Ask for written directions Use diagrams and webs for note taking Practice visualizing or picturing words and concepts

in your head Make ‘to-do’ lists and use agenda or assignment

book Use flash cards

Auditory Learning Tips

Use tape recorder for lectures, brainstorming ideas, or writing

Participate in class discussions Ask for directions to be read aloud Repeat spelling words or information aloud to

memorize After you read something, summarize it and

recite it aloud.

Kinesthetic Learning Tips Do as much hands-on as possible – models, lab work, role plays,

posters, etc. Take frequent, short study breaks Trace letters and words to learn spelling and remember facts

(sand paper, play-doh, pudding) Use the computer for projects Memorize or drill while walking or exercising Express abilities through dance, drama, or sports Take notes on everything To learn facts – write them several times and make study sheets Associate class material with real-world things

Final thoughts

Many of the kinesthetic tips can be used with all elementary aged children due to lower attention spans and maturity levels

Help your children understand their learning styles and how to advocate for themselves.

Thank you!