When teaching a class, it is important for the instructor to facilitate new information using methodologies that will appeal to a broad learning range and a variety of learning styles.
Visual learners are participants who learn, understand and retain new information when it is presented with the aid of illustrations, diagrams, graphs, charts, maps, text books, hand-outs and video clips.
The Visual Learning Style
The visual learning style is one in which the learner prefers to take in new information visually. Visual learners prefer to write things down, view information in a chart, graph or diagram; color code or highlight notes and study in a quiet environment using flashcards and study aids.
Visual learners will often try to imagine and conceptualize new ideas or information and enjoy the use of demonstrations or illustrations in the classroom. They prefer to read over and often times re-write class notes and have the tendency to study in silence with minimal background noise.
Visual Learning Style Challenges
Visual learners can experience challenges when learning new information if the information is presented in a style or manner that does not take into consideration their needs.
Difficulties for Visual Learners Include:
- Information presented in the form of a lecture or through verbal discussion without the use of supplemental diagrams or illustrations.
- Excessive background noise including student side chatter, music and outside noise can quickly distract a visual learner.
- An assigned task without specific instructions to view can be stressful and confusing to a visual learner.
Lectures, activities and verbal instructions that do not include a visual element can create learning roadblocks for visual learners. Excessive noise can also be a hindrance to the learning process.
Ways to Enhance a Visual Learner’s Educational Experience
A visual learner’s educational experience can be enhanced when new information, concepts, or ideas are presented in a way that will support the visual learning style.
Strategies to Assist Visual Learners Include:
- A lecture including one or two visual learning aids such as a chart, graph or a video clip.
- Supplement verbal instructions with an additional handout or diagram.
- Demonstrations that show the learner how to complete a required task or assignment.
- Incorporate colorful and tangible learning activities that include the use of flashcards, puzzles or posters.
The use of supplemental charts, graphs, videos, color coded notes and flashcards will enhance the learning retention of visual learners.
When an instructor incorporates the use of colorful illustrations, graphs, maps, diagrams, activities, videos, demonstrations and supplemental handouts into the facilitation of new material it will significantly enhance the visual learner’s educational experience.
 |
