Usually, students learn by hearing, seeing, and experiencing. But each student is more inclined towards one of these means of learning. So, if teaching and learning techniques are customized to suit a student’s learning style, their academic performance will improve.

For instance, if you are a visual learner, you may find it tough to write the essay-type answers in the test because you cannot recall the material conveyed orally in class. But if there was a visual aid and a colorful depiction of the facts, it may be easier for you to retain the information.

Let us discuss the characteristics of all the learners and the best learning strategies to suit them.

Characteristics of Visual Learners

Many students have an aptitude to imbibe knowledge by seeing or observing. Such students are known as visual learners. They usually possess these characteristics:

• They are good at spellings, but they tend to forget first names.
• Can learn better when it is quiet.
• Are fond of fashion and colors.
• Have a colorful imagination.
• Can pick up sign language more easily.
• Comprehend visual charts and elements.

Learning Suggestions

• History – draw a timeline of various historical events.
• Science – make a diagram of a scientific procedure.
• Reading assignments – write an outline of what you read.
• Note down whatever is there on the blackboard or whiteboard.
• Use flashcards.
• Diagram sentences.
• Make lists and take notes.
• Watch videos.
• Use highlighters, color coding, and underlining to mark your class notes.

Test Types

• Best types of tests: Essay tests, map reading, demonstration of a process, diagram activities.
• Worst types of tests: Listening tests.

Characteristics of Auditory Learners

The students who have a higher aptitude for learning through hearing are called auditory learners. They usually possess these characteristics:

• They prefer to read aloud.
• Speak boldly in the class.
• Are good at presenting oral reports and explaining things in the classroom.
• Remember names.
• Enjoy music.
• Notice the sound effects while watching movies.
• Can follow verbal directions.
• Find it difficult to remain quiet for a long time.
• Can concentrate while studying in a group.

Learning Suggestions

• Make use of word association for memorizing facts.
• Watch videos.
• Record lectures.
• Close your eyes and repeat the facts and figures that you have learned.
• Take part in discussions held in groups.
• Use audio to practice the language.
• Write notes and then read them aloud.

Test Types

• Best types of tests: Writing responses to lectures and oral examinations.
• Worst types of tests: Writing answers after reading passages within a set time.

Characteristics of Kinesthetic Learners

The students who learn best by doing things themselves are known as kinesthetic learners. They usually possess these characteristics:

• They are good at games and sports.
• Cannot sit in one position or place for a long time.
• Their handwriting may be untidy.
• Play loud music while studying.
• Are fond of movies and adventure books.
• Cannot remain still during lectures.
• Can grasp faster through modeling and lab activities.

Learning Suggestions

• Study with short breaks and learn small portions at a time.
• Take part in lab-based learning activities.
• Act out whatever you study.
• Reinforce your knowledge by going on field trips.
• Study with a group of students.
• Use memory games and flashcards.

Test Types

• Best types of tests: Multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank questions, and short definitions.
• Worst types of tests: Excessively long tests and essay tests.

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