Factors in Learning

Learning styles describe the various ways people gather as well as process information. What feels right and makes sense to one learner can seem slipshod -- or nitpicky -- to another.

Each of us has a propensity for looking, listening, or touching: Some read the instructions for Monopoly, others ask to hear the rules explained, still others get the dice rolling and learn as they play. Furthermore, we each have our own best times of day, favorite chairs to sit in, and other environmental factors that help us concentrate or feel energized.

Classroom teachers note learning styles to determine how students will likely find success: Working in groups or alone? Following step-by-step instructions or open-ended assignments? Reading a chapter, talking it over, or experimenting hands-on?

Parents, likewise, can use learning styles at home to discover what makes your children tick. Recognizing learning styles can help you understand your children's individuality, and help kids succeed in completing household and homework routines.

Watch your child at play to determine his or her visual, auditory, or kinesthetic strengths. You should also discover whether your child tends to analyze or see the big picture, and what environmental factors help or hinder mental processing.

Keep in mind that most of us are quite capable of using more than one style, but we tend to use one method most of the time. That does not mean we are limited to a single way of learning, but working outside the preferred style for extended periods can be stressful for most of us.