As an educator, I find it necessary to explain to parents the different types of learning. There are several ways we are learn. But there are differences in how we are each receptive to each type. For instance, I am definitely a visual learner. I need to see things. This makes say listening to audio books a bit harder for me. Though I still love my Audible books (especially when at the gym!). But it’s important for parents to learn what are the different types of learning. Further, it’s important to learn which type their child will learn from best.
How Learning What Type Best Suits Your Child Helps
By learning what type of learning best suits your child, you will be able to help them immensely. For one, it helps when trying to teach them not just in school subjects, but with anything.
Say you want to teach your child how to ride a bike. If you know they are a visual learner, you will know you need to first demonstrate for them how to do it. You can even use Youtube videos that show steps.
In general, I feel learning about the different types of learning will help make you a better teacher. You can use different types in trying to explain stuff to your kids.
What are the 4 Types of Learning?
The first type of learning is Visual. This would be a student who needs to see objects/pictures/charts.
Using visual representations such as models would. be helpful for this type of learner. And using a lot of pictures or drawings would also be helpful.
The second type of learning is Auditory. An auditory student would be someone who needs to hear things explained.
As I stated earlier, I am not auditory although I do listen to books on tape. I find it hard for me to fully grasp all the concepts of a book just by listening.
However, this brings us to the next type of learning.
The third type of learning is Reading/Writing. This type of student needs to write it out or read the words in order to get a better grasp on the subject matter. Some people need to actually see the words in order to understand.
The final type of learning is Kinesthetic. What this means is that the Kinesthetic student needs to actually carry out a task in order to learn. However there are some things we can’t always do on a practical level. This style can also incorporate giving them a concrete example in order for them to fully grasp concepts.
Ways to Discover Your Child’s Learning Style
There are several ways to discover which learning style your child prefers.
- Pay attention to what they gravitate to. Do they prefer to watch things? Or do they need to hear it?
- Talk to their teachers! Ask the options of the educational professionals around your kids. Further questions would be how to help assist with your child’s learning style.
- Take tests in order to find out. If you aren’t sure which style you yourself are best suited to you can try taking a test yourself. Here’s a link to one http://www.educationplanner.org/students/self-assessments/learning-styles-quiz.shtml.
Discovering your child’s learning style can help them throughout life. Because we are all lifelong students whether it’s in the classroom or out.