Differentiating Between Learning Style and Multisensory Techniques
Learning Style:
A learning style refers to an individual’s preferred way of processing information and acquiring knowledge. It is unique to each person and can be classified into three main types: visual, auditory, and kinesthetic.
Visual learners prefer to learn through seeing and observing. They understand and remember information better when it is presented visually, such as through images, diagrams, or written text. They may also benefit from using color coding or highlighting important points.
Auditory learners, on the other hand, learn best through listening and hearing. They prefer verbal explanations, discussions, and lectures. They may benefit from reading aloud or recording themselves to listen later for better understanding and retention.
Kinesthetic learners learn best through movement, touch, and physical experiences. They engage their sense of touch and body movements to process information. They may benefit from hands-on activities, role-playing, or other interactive learning experiences.
Multisensory Techniques:
Multisensory techniques, on the other hand, are instructional strategies that engage multiple senses simultaneously to enhance learning. While learning styles are specific to each individual, multisensory techniques can be used to accommodate various learning styles and enhance learning for all students.
Multisensory techniques incorporate movement, touch, visual, and auditory elements to provide a rich and immersive learning experience. For example, when teaching reading, a multisensory approach may involve using textured materials for letter formation, incorporating visual cues like colorful images or charts, and incorporating auditory elements through rhymes or songs.
The key difference between learning style and multisensory techniques lies in their focus. Learning style is specific to an individual and represents their preferred way of learning, while multisensory techniques are instructional strategies that can be used to engage multiple senses and cater to different learning styles.
Learning style refers to an individual’s preferred way of processing information, while multisensory techniques are instructional strategies that engage multiple senses to enhance learning. By incorporating multisensory techniques in the classroom, educators can create a more inclusive and effective learning environment that caters to the diverse needs of students with different learning styles.