Recognizing a learning style
Being able to recognize the many differing learning styles that might be in one class is important so that after explaining a concept, for those who need a more concrete explanation, you can draw on other methods or ways to explain a theory
At times I assume ( yes it is dangerous ) that I have all learning styles in the room and cover material the best I can. It seems it enhances everybody in the process.
Zbigniew,
This is what helps with student engagement. You are providing different learning opportunities for all students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Seems every student has a blend of those and because I have students for 3 weeks duration my tendency is to cover all primaries in info and demo period and if need be deal with individual or small group during practice time
Learning the different styles of learining your class is facing is a great tool to keep your class focused and interested in learning
Zbigniew,
This approach gives the students two opportunities to internalize the content as well as have it reinforced via practice and application. This I am sure increases the content retention rate for the students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
By using various techniques (group discussions, debates,lectures, and presentations),I feel broadens the teaching. This allows students to utilize their own learning style to comprehend the lesson.
Learning styles are important because that’s how that learner likes to learn, but if you have a bad learning environment you still won’t get through to the Lerner. I try to make my learning environment a safe place for my learners to feel comfortable to ask any question they need to. You have to have trust for that.
Andrew,
Very good point an one we need to remember as we go into our classes. Our students need to feel accepted and comfortable with the learning environment both physically as well as socially.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
There is all type of learning styles ,as a in structor we set the environment for all student ,need to know to make student feel comfortabe
I agree that students need to feel comfortable. It is really easy to forget to take the time to recognize different learning styles when you have a class full of varying ages and experience levels - I have everything from recent high school graduates to former owners of companies. The high school graduates are really uncomfortable and nervous initially in the culinary classroom setting, especially when they see older/more experienced people around them. Sometimes they get lost in the shuffle. Instructors really need to stop and assess all the different learners, and tailor the classroom situation to encompass everyone. Every class is different, every student has particular needs - no wonder we're exhausted at the end of the week!!!
Holly,
Thank you for these good comments about how to include all students no matter their age or experience. This is such a vital part of being a good educator. We cannot let one student slip away from us due to our neglect.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
learning styles are like languages and as an instructor we have to be able to communicate accordingly.
Lindsey,
Good point and one that we need to remember as we are planning our instructional delivery methods.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I often teach the same class over and over again and have been asked if that gets boring for me. Because every class is made up of different learners, ages, and backgrounds, I am constantly modifying the material to fit the needs of the specific classroom situation. How you meet the objectives for one class might not work in another based upon assessment of the environment. Continual assessment and modification to meet student needs = never boring!
Denise,
Thank you for this very good point about individualizing instruction for each student in each class as much as is possible. In two weeks I start 5 new sections of the same class. I do what you have outlined so I remain excited about teaching the same content but in five different ways because I have five different groups of students with different personalities and support needs.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
