Everybody learns in different ways, and no method is better than the other. There are four main learning styles: Visual, Auditory, Reading/Writing, and Kinesthetic, and many people use a combination of two or more. Whatever learning style works for your mind, Learnology tutors have you covered. But, let’s discuss further what exactly reading/writing learners prefer, and how we help students with this style.
What is Reading/Writing Learning?
Reading and writing learning is exactly how it sounds – these students prefer the written/typed word. They tend to enjoy written instructions, creating essays, taking notes, and giving presentations. On average, it is the least preferred learning method, with less than 20% of students picking this style on a survey. If you’re not sure what type of learner you are, try out this free quiz here: https://www.learningstylequiz.com/
How Are Reading/Writing Learners Different From Visual?
While written text and visual learning may seem similar, and learners can certainly use both, they are distinct categories. Visual learners tend to prefer charts, graphs, pictures, maps and video demonstrations that organize information.
How Does Learnology Work With Reading and Writing Learners?
During your first session, we always try to determine how you or your child learn best. Some students aren’t quite sure, which is not a problem. We incorporate a few different methods until we find one that sticks, and switch it up to keep kids focused. This also helps with retention and application of concepts.
To adhere to reading/writing preferences, we offer:
- Providing written notes, or asking students to take notes
- Using whiteboards so students can write while moving around
- Typed, detailed notes with instructions regarding homework for the week
- Writing-based review, such as creating paragraphs/essays
- Lists and charts are used and encouraged
- Reading assignments
We understand that lecturing without any written information can make it difficult to absorb concepts, so we do our best to incorporate reading and writing whenever we can.
Reading/Writing Learner Strengths
These types of learners tend to do well with more traditional teaching methods, as many are based on this system. They also tend to excel with reading comprehension, essays, strong vocabulary, self-paced learning and independent note-taking.
Reading/Writing Learner Common Struggles
Unfortunately, some lessons are taught purely through speech, or by watching videos without subtitles. Students tend to zone out, or easily forget information when delivered in this format.
If watching a live lecture that can’t be recorded, try the following:
- Jot down quick notes (not super detailed, if the lecturer speaks quickly). You can go back and edit them later.
- Make a goal to ask 2 or 3 questions, which tends to help students pay attention.
- If there is a textbook/prior readings available, read and take notes on them prior to the lecture.
If you’re able to record the lecture, or you’re watching a video:
- See if a transcript/subtitles are available to read along.
- Pause and take summary notes (not word for word) every few minutes
- Slow the video down.
What If I Learn In Multiple Ways?
There’s no one correct way to learn, and most people have a mix of learning styles! The brain actually tends to hold onto information best when it forms multiple associations about the same topic. So a chart and written review might stick better than just one or the other. To keep things interesting, students may find it fun to write a portion, read some text out loud, create, and then listen to a video. This incorporates all styles, to keep your brain active and thinking.
If you or your child are looking for tutoring tailored to your learning style, book with us here or call us at 780-700-7877.