There are four different learning styles: visual, auditory, writing, and reading. Every person has a different learning style. Tactile learning style is one of such common learning styles that a lot of people have around the world.
People with tactile learning styles are able to learn about a concept best through their physical touch or manipulation of objects. It is important for instructors to adopt certain activities in their lectures and study lessons to encourage tactile learning.
Let’s explore the top 6 ways through which tactile learning style can be promoted.
Table of Contents
1. Hands-On Practice
Teachers should encourage the students to take notes in their own handwriting because hands-on practice allows students to commit the content to their memory through practice. It is not always necessary that the notes are made in only words.
Instead, teachers can also ask students to take notes in the form of graphs, diagrams, mind maps, and pictures. It all depends on the subject and the exact topic being covered in class. Moreover, students can also use a colorful highlighter while reading a chapter to note down key points and make revision quicker and easier.
2. Using Props
Using manipulative objects is the most effective way to make learning easier for tactile learners. Props allow tactile learners to work out math problems and remember difficult concepts easily.
For instance, small tiles can be used for addition and subtraction. Similarly, different shapes like squares, rectangles, and triangles must be present in the classroom for geometry lessons. It will ultimately help the learners in grasping even the most challenging concepts.
3. Variety of Learning Styles
Considering the varying learning styles of every student in a classroom can be highly challenging for teachers. This is the reason why it is important for instructors to offer a variety of learning styles in lectures.
For instance, teachers can provide the option of completing an assignment in multiple ways. This particular can be implemented in all major subjects. An important historical event can be covered through both written reports and drawings.
Similarly, a simple science experiment can be performed both at home and school with thorough instructions to ensure tactical learners are able to interact directly with the involved material and components.
4. Using Flashcard
Using flashcards to speed up the learning and revision process is not limited to only tactile learners. Instead, every student should make flashcards in their own language and handwriting so they can revise or learn the subject at any time.
Flashcards are a great way for students to memorize different concepts and have them at the tip of their hands for quick revision sessions. You can maximize the benefits of flashcards by getting creative with them. Use a variety of colors, designs, and paper clips to decorate the flashcards and make them appealing to use and learn.
5. Moving is Important
The importance of physical movement for tactile learners cannot be understated. Teachers should allow tactile learners to move in the classroom. Even a quick little walk can help them freshen up and have increased focus on the topic being discussed in the classroom.
If the instructor is giving a lesson in which no movement is possible, it is better to give them something in hand, such as a picture or mind map, so they can concentrate and understand the topic without going against their own learning style.
6. Play-Based Learning Activities
The desire to play and get physically involved is hardwired into tactical learners. Hence, it is not possible to assume that students with tactile learning styles can sit idle at a desk and remain productive for a long period of time.
Therefore, it is recommended that students incorporate play-based learning activities into the classroom. Such activities can greatly vary from subject to subject. For instance, in English vocabulary lessons, teachers should use different shapes, sizes, colors, and even numbers. Such props can also be used for critical and analytical skills.
7. Use Modern Technologies
Modern tools and technologies have a special place in the classrooms. Students are impressed by modern tech and take more interest in study lessons. Teachers should incorporate such technologies as coding into their lessons to make the lessons interactive for all the students and more engaging for tactile learners.
Even the simplest coding activities can be highly stimulating for students as it allows them to ‘build’ something. In this way, individuals with tactile learning styles will remain involved throughout the learning stage.
Conclusion
The tactile learning style definitely requires significant changes in the traditional mode of teaching, in which usually long lectures are delivered without much interaction. However, including some kind of physical activity and props is essential to ensure tactile learners thrive in the learning environment. It will ultimately lead to productive study sessions and help all learners in achieving their learning goals.