Learning Styles Analysis

Learning Styles Analysis

Maxine Nicholson Grand Canyon University: EDU- 551 April 9, 2023

Learning Styles & Funds of Knowledge

Learning Styles and Planning

Student Factors' Evaluation & Instruction

Assessment & Learning Styles

Learning styles theory suggest that students learn better when taught based on their preferred style of learning (whether auditory, visual, or kinesthetic) that is, the way they absorb, process, comprehend, and retain information (CORP-MATI, 2022). Some theorists believe that when teachers align their curriculum to students’ learning styles, their learning outcomes will be maximized. According to Kansas University (2021), research states that students’ learning styles are not necessarily predictors of how they prefer to be taught. Instead, they learn best when a variety of strategies are incorporated in the lesson as the brain processes information in complex ways. e need for personalizing every activity since all learning styles are then addressed.

The graph above shows the results of students’ learning styles inventory. The results reveal that Dashae and Amari are primarily auditory learners, and Grace, a visual/tactile learner with auditory learning being very important. Movement in learning is essential for all three. The data confirms the findings of the research as there is no single predominant learning style for any of the girls. Hence, learning experiences must build upon the students’ funds of knowledge- diverse experiences, social and linguistic backgrounds as well as their physical development which also significantly impact their learning outcomes and which are intricately interwoven to determine how they learn. Kansas University (2012), states learning opportunities should provide for multiple means of representation, engagement, and expression which negate the need for personalizing every activity since all learning styles are then addressed.

The data from the learning styles inventory can be used to influence instructional planning. Although it will not be prudent to base lesson planning solely on students’ preferred learning styles, it is important to provide instruction that is inclusive and engaging for all learners (Roelle, 2019). Therefore, providing multiple opportunities for representation, engagement, and expression will no doubt enhance learning as students can use a combination of or which ever learning preference they choose to assimilate and apply learning. Kinesthetic learners are those who process learning best through tactile representations with hands on activities and movement. For example, incorporating manipulatives in Math, conducting experiments in Science, and acting out scenes in a play or while retelling a story will appeal to such learners. Visual Learners can envision imagery easily and are better able to process and consolidate information when they are able to ‘see’ it. Providing charts, graphs, flash cards, and using different types of technology such as videos and PowerPoint presentations will help them to understand information better. Auditory Learners tend to remember best when they hear and speak aloud. They may be talkative or very vocal in class. To ensure that their needs are addressed during instruction, it will be necessary to provide opportunities that allow them to engage in discussions or work in groups and incorporate music and videos to support their learning.

In designing instruction for the students, it is important to consider their learning strengths, interests, and needs. This means learning tasks and activities that address their learning styles and funds of knowledge must be integrated throughout the lessons. Students must be provided with choice in their learning which allows them to take ownership and maximize how they can demonstrate such learning. For example, given a topic of study, auditory learners may make oral presentations, visual learners may complete a video presentation, while drama might be incorporated by the kinesthetic learner. In addition, demonstrating value and the unique contributions of each student will validate and support them which will enhance their learning. Providing opportunities for them to tap into their prior experiences will enable them to make connections to new learning, while presenting content in various ways, and allowing them to express their learning in multiple ways will enhance their learning outcomes.

Assessment, formal or informal, when effectively designed, addresses students’ learning styles and enhances their learning outcomes (Brown University, n.d.). Students have different levels of knowledge and skills and differ in how they process information due to their different learning styles. Therefore, it will be important to design assessment that allows them to demonstrate their learning in ways and that appropriately utilizes their learning strengths while challenging them to use methods that might not necessarily be comfortable for them. The ways in which students demonstrate mastery of learning objectives should be as diverse as their learning styles. For example, in addition to illustrating responses, students may be given the option to write an explanation, engage in role-play, build a model or use technology to create something new. Differentiation of assessment is beneficial to students as it provides relevance for students and enables teachers to better support the students they serve.

References

• Brown University. (n.d). Guidelines for assessing student learning. Sheridan Center. https://www.brown.edu/sheridan/teaching-learning-resources/teaching-resources/course-design/classroom-assessment/guidelines • CORP-MAT1 (TEACH). (2022). Learning styles. https://teach.com/what/teachers-know/learning-styles/ • NAEYC. (n.d.). DAP: Teaching to enhance each child's development and learning. https://www.naeyc.org/resources/position-statements/dap/enhance-development • Roelle, K. (2019). Understanding visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning styles. ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/three-different-learning-styles-3212040 • University of Kansas. (2021). Different learning styles-what teachers need to know. Kansas University. School of Education. https://educationonline.ku.edu/community/learning-styles-what-teachers-need-to-know