The Kinesthetic Learner

We’ve already discussed the Visual and Verbal learner, and if those styles just didn’t seem quite right, you are probably a Kinesthetic learner.

In its most simple explanation, a kinesthetic learner learns by doing.

What does this mean?  A kinesthetic learner is a hands-on kind of person.  They need an interactive experience to maximize the learning process, and frequently grow bored in a lecture situation.  If kinesthetic learners are stuck in a traditional classroom or educational mode, they will need to take regular breaks, stand and stretch on occasion, and may need to have chewing gum or a snack handy to provide a little physical release as well.

If you are a kinesthetic learner, you may use phrases like:

• Let me try that.
• Can you watch and see if I’m doing this correctly?
• I’ll tackle that after I take a break.

How to enhance your skills if you are a kinesthetic learner:

• Volunteer for role play or acting out scenarios.
• Take frequent breaks, stand, or move about.
• If learning a new skill, have someone observe you performing the skill to make you’ve grasped it.

If you are a trainer, or planning a conference, here are ways to make sure you reach the kinesthetic learner:

• Plan interactive learning modules.
• Schedule regular, and frequent, changes in the way information is presented.
• Don’t forget to plan in break time.
• Allow time for networking, and social interaction, before and/or after educational sessions.

Remember, the kinesthetic learner FEELS information.

Next up:  Making the learning styles work for you.