Understanding your student's learning style

If your student is struggling in STEM subjects, consider whether the subject matter is the cause or if the teaching and learning technique does not match your student’s learning style. Your child might not know their learning style (most students don’t), but how he/ she likes to do homework or remember details are huge clues around their personal learning styles.

First, analyze your student’s learning style, and then tailor lessons and studying methods accordingly. Try reading a book to your student: do they want to see pictures (visual), touch the book/ pictures (kinesthetic) or close their eyes to hear the words (auditory)? Review game rules: do they want to see the directions (visual), repeat them after you (auditory) or do what you just said (kinesthetic)?

Here are techniques for all types of learners:

1. Visual Learners:

   The visual learner loves graphs, drawing images with colorful pens to remember, pneumonic devices, picture cues and other graphics. Visual learners need to see the information to learn. Use a Post-it® Dry Erase Surface to draw diagrams, charts and pictures to help students better understand and digest the information. Write down or draw directions and to-do lists to reference.
    

2. Auditory Learners:

   Auditory Learners: This group needs to hear and repeat the information to recall it. Use Post-it® Super Sticky Notes and jot down a key fact on each about the topic of focus, and use the Post-it® Notes as flash cards, reading out loud alone or with a study buddy to remember the words in their head.
    

3. Kinesthetic Learners:

   Kinesthetic Learners: The kinesthetic student needs to touch, write or move to learn. Create an interactive activity for this group as they benefit from being “do-ers” rather than looking or listening to information solely. Use Post-it® Big Pads to map out problems or outline main topics and use Post-it® Super Sticky Notes to organize solutions. Write down the directions or information out long hand – the action of writing or the kinesthetic movement helps them remember the information.