Learning Styles

Learning Styles and Technology Preferences

Visual

Visual learners learn best by visualizing or seeing things. They often have a photographic memory and can easily remember faces of those they meet. These learners picture stories in their minds as they read, and would rather put together a machine from a picture, rather than from directions.

What technology best meets the needs of visual learners?

Visual learners can benefit greatly from computers, especially those programs with vivid pictures and graphics. They may also excel with digital cameras or camcorders, PowerPoints, and ActiveBoard presentations. These learners will also love using Web Cams to view areas around the globe, as well as classmates across the hall. Videos and DVDs will also be effective teaching tools for these students. Visual learners may struggle with Spreadsheet and Database programs as they solely employ words and numbers.

Auditory

Auditory learners learn best by hearing. They often enjoy listening more than talking. When reading, auditory learners best like dialogue between characters. They prefer verbal instructions to written directions, and will not hesitate to call a help desk or hotline.

What technology best meets the needs of auditory learners?

Auditory learners benefit from websites and computer programs that have sound or dialogue. They may also excel with digital camcorders, microphones, and music creating programs, such as Garage Band. Video tapes and DVDs may also be effective, as long as dialogue is included. Tape recorders will also prove a helpful tool to the auditory learner. Auditory learners may struggle with Microsoft Office Programs, such as Word, Excel, and Access due to the lack of audio.

Kinesthetic and Tactile

Kinesthetic and tactile learners learn best from movement or touch. Computers may still be effective, but touch screen monitors and laptops will prove to be most versatile. These learners will enjoy working with camcorders, digital camers, Active Board presentations, microphones, and tape recorders as all these devices are small enough to allow transport. Any program that requires the student to stay seated for long periods of time may prove to be ineffective or boring for this student.

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