What are “Learning Preferences”? Each individual is unique, therefore, each individual’s style of learning is also unique. 3 Main Learning Preferences According to Fleming’s VARK Model 1. Visual 2. Auditory 3. Kinesthetic ***COMBINATIONS
Visual Learners Learn best from: – Demonstrations – Videos – Overhead/PPT Notes – Skits – Anything they can see Distracted by movement and not by sound
Auditory Learners - Learn best from: * Lectures * Music * Podcasts * Class Discussion * Verbal Directions * In-Class Readings - About 20% of people learn best by auditory means -Distracted by sound and not by movement in the classroom
Kinesthetic Learners Learns best by: – “Hands-on” Activities Such as: Science Experiments Acting in a class skit Taking apart and putting an engine together Some believe Kinesthetic Learning is the most “natural” learning Make up 15% of the population
How do we Reach All Learners? VARIETY!!!! – An example of a Government lesson might be: Play an excerpt of the Declaration of Independence being read (Auditory) Discuss the parts of the Declaration using a PPT Slide Presentation (Visual) Role play the actual meeting of delegates when they drafted the Declaration (Kinesthetic)
Other Learning Preference Models David Kolb’s Model – Converger – Diverger – Assimilator – Accomodator Honey and Mumford’s Model – Having an experience – Reviewing the experience – Concluding from the experience – Planning the next steps
Other Learning Preference Models Anthony Gregorc’s Model – Two Perceptual Qualities: Concrete, Abstract – Two Ordering Abilities: Random, Sequential Sudbury Model of Democratic Education – Many ways to learn – Learning is a process that is done BY individuals, not done TO individuals
Learning Styles Related to Multiple Intelligences There are 9 Multiple Intelligences – Naturalist – Musical – Logical/Mathematical – Verbal/Linguistic – Interpersonal – Bodily/Kinesthetic – Visual/Spatial – Existential – Intrapersonal
Learning Preference Assessments There are many on-line assessments for testing your personal learning preference: est.htm est.htm b.html b.html ModalityDiagnostic?OpenForm ModalityDiagnostic?OpenForm Many more available for free or to purchase