Three learning styles

There are three main cognitive learning styles; visual, auditory, and kinaesthetic. As each and every person processes and learns new information in different ways, it is beneficial to know which style you and your children are to better their education. Understanding how you and your children learn can help maximize time spent studying by incorporating different techniques to custom fit various subjects, concepts and learning objectives. Each preferred learning style has methods that fit the different ways an individual may learn best.

Below are the three learning styles and their characteristics

Visual

• Uses visual objects such as graphs, charts, pictures and seeing information
• Able to memorize and recall various information
• Tends to remember things that are written down
• Can read body language well and has good perception of aesthetics
• Learns better in lectures by watching them

 

Auditory

• Retains information through hearing and speaking
• Notices different aspects of speaking
• Often prefers to be told how to do things and then summarizes the main points out loud to help with memorization
• Often has talents in music and may concentrate better with sift music playing in the background

Kinaesthetic

• Likes to use the hands-on approach to learn new material
• Is generally good in math and science
• Would rather demonstrate how to do something rather than verbally explain it
• Usually prefers group work more than others

Below are the three learning styles and helpful tips to study

Visual

• Turn notes into pictures, charts or maps
• Avoid distractions (windows, doorways, etc.)
• Learn the big picture first and then focus on the details
• Make mind and concept maps instead of outlines
• Colour code parts of new concepts in your notes
• Use flash cards when trying to study vocabulary

Auditory

• Record lectures and then listen to them
• Repeat material out loud and in your own words
• Discuss materials in your study groups
• Read textbooks aloud
• Listen to wordless background music while studying

Kinaesthetic

• Take study breaks often
• Learn new material doing something active (eg: read a textbook while on a treadmill)
• Chew gum while standing
• Work while standing
• Try taking classes with instructors who encourage demonstrations and fieldwork

For an alternative to homeschooling, contact The Assisted Learning Centre to hear more about what they offer.