The learning style.?

Question

Post your response to the following: Is it best to adjust instruction to teach in accordance

with individual learning styles, or should students experience and be encouraged to

participate in activities that require learning styles other than those they naturally prefer?

In other words, if a child’s preferred learning style is visual and field independent (prefers

to work alone), should all instruction be based on visual, independent activities, or should

the student also be accountable for participation in group activities that incorporate other

modes of learning (for example, bodily/kinesthetic, auditory, and so forth)? Explain your answer .

Answer 1

Personally, I think lessons should involve a variety of learning styles.  That way, students can learn according to their own strengths, but also are exposed to other learning styles so that they have an opportunity to work on and strengthen those areas.  It's also important to talk to students about why you're using different strategies.  That way they can identify their strengths and weaknesses and learn how to use them or improve them.

Answer 2

Variety so everyone can have something to help them, and those other people can learn the other styles of learning aswell and that might help them find the right answer on a test or whatever.

Answer 3

Personally, when introducing a new concept or skill to my students (I teach math.) I plan instruction and activities that encompass all 4 learning styles. This gives each student an opportunity to receive the new info in the manner that fits them best. I find that if students receive the info through their primary style then they will learn it faster which is a good thing because there is a ton of curriculum to get through in a school year. Once the student has grasped the concept or learned the new skill he/she can utilize it more readily, thus attaining proficiency and mastery of the concept or skill quicker.

The purpose for identifying the learning style of each student is so you as the teacher know how best to reteach that student if they missed the initial lesson or if they need extra help.

So, in answer to your question: Yes, the teacher should adjust to the students.