Learning Styles

What is your definition of Teaching?

In 7 Laws of the Learner, Dr. Bruce Wilkinson makes the connection between teaching and learning. It is truly amazing to see the connection between the Hebrew words for teaching and learning in Deuteronomy.

In the book, Dr. Wilkinson defines teaching as "causing the student to learn". This definition has great ramifications to a teacher. This puts the responsibility of the students learning in the hands of the teacher. (Yes, I know the student plays a part in their learning as well.)

This definition hit home to me shortly after a Life Group class that I had taught. A first time guest approached me saying that they didn't understand what I was talking about during class. I had failed at teaching that day. Sure, I presented all of the information, but she didn't learn!

One way we can "cause our students to learn" is to speak to their learning style. How can a teacher know a student's learning style? Many times it can be observed. If someone is fidgety in class, that might be an indication of a physical learning style. If someone is always humming, it might be an indication of a musical learning style.

We can be more direct and ask. To this end, you could survey your class with the Approach To Learning worksheet. Dr. Thomas Armstrong has an article that has some more information.

It has always been interesting to see the different learning styles represented in a class that I have surveyed. Armed with their learning styles you can now effectively "teach" your students!