Just their style
BY TRESA ERICKSON

Does your child learn in layers? Do they favor overviews? Do they like to know what the end result of a project should be? If so, they may be a global learner. Global is just one of the many types of learning styles.

Learning is a complex process that takes place throughout a person's life. There are many types of learning style models, but all confirm that children, like adults, learn in different ways. Here is just a sample of some of the styles you might encounter while looking at the various models.

Concrete learners

Children in this category learn best with a hands-on approach. Hearing or reading about something is not enough; doing it is better. Concrete learners are very tactile and don't mind getting their hands dirty. They like to make flashcards and conduct experiments.

Abstract learners

Children in this category learn best with a less tactile approach. They work well with words and tend to grasp ideas easily. They enjoy reading and follow general directions well.

Global learners

Children in this category learn best in layers. They like to know in the beginning what the point of the lesson is, that is, the reasoning behind it, and what the end result should be. They need to see the big picture and find overviews helpful.

Sequential learners

Children in this category learn best with step-by-step instructions. They find overviews a waste of time and need to work through the lesson one step at a time. They often use note cards and benefit from demonstrations.

Visual learners

Children in this category learn best by looking. They rely on their eyes and retain much of what they see. They also enjoy demonstrations and find diagrams, charts and graphs helpful.

Auditory learners

Children in this category learn best by listening. They can usually block out distracting sounds and retain most of what they hear. They like to write down key words and participate in discussions.

Your child may learn by one or any combination of these styles. They may also demonstrate certain weaknesses or strengths within styles. For example, an abstract learner with strong verbal reasoning skills may understand idioms easily, but have problems putting together a puzzle because of their poor non-verbal reasoning skills.

As your child grows, their learning style may change. While they may start out as a visual spatial learner in kindergarten, they may turn into an auditory global learner in junior high. What was once a weakness could become a strength.

According to experts, no one learning style or combination of styles is better than another. Working together, teachers and parents can capitalize on a child's strengths and improve their weaknesses. Start today! Sit down with your child's teacher, discuss your child's learning style and work together to help your child get the most out of their education!