Children learn by processing information through their senses. The learning styles are named after those senses most often used to learn. Children who process information using their sight are visual learners. Auditory learners are those children who learn by hearing. Children who learn by utilizing their hands are kinesthetic learners. Even though most people utilize a combination of the three styles of learning, each child usually prefers to use one sense over the others.
Visual
A visual learner enjoys looking at pictures, reading books and solving puzzles. He learns best by watching a demonstration, reading information and seeing charts, maps, diagrams and videos. During a class discussion or lecture, he should take thorough notes to help him assimilate the information. The precise notes will also benefit him later when reviewing the material. When an instructor is describing a process, this type of learner will try to picture it in his mind. Because a visual learner comprehends information through sight, he should sit toward the front of the class to avoid being visually distracted.
Auditory
According to the University of Illinois Extension, the auditory learner benefits most from verbal instruction and class discussion. When studying, the learning method that works best is reading the material or notes out loud to herself in a quiet area. As a student in class or at home studying, she can be distracted by other noises. An auditory learner does not need to sit at the front of the class. She can sit any place where she can hear what is being taught. When bored, the auditory learner has the tendency to hum, whistle or talk to others or herself. She is prone to remember those things that she has heard. The auditory learner may have difficulty reading due to not being able to visualize concepts.
Kinesthetic
A kinesthetic learner loves exploring the environment around him. He frequently feels the urgency to be active and has difficulty sitting quietly for any length of time. Due to his need to be active, he might struggle with staying focused during class or while studying. Using a timer could help him stay focused and complete homework or chores within a specified period of time. This type of learner has a tendency to gesture with his hands while speaking. When learning, he benefits most by touching and doing. According to University College, the kinesthetic learner thrives in those classes that allow him to move about and experience or perform tasks with his hands. He flourishes in such classes as woodworking, physical education, construction, art and computer science.
