Anne Barnette Zalubowski February 20, 2008 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!