Teaching Approaches: The kinaesthetic approach

In the blog last week, we reviewed the auditory approach to teaching. This week we shall explore the importance of the application of a kinaesthetic learning style.

Introduction to the kinaesthetic style

This is an approach in which educators acknowledge that some students learn most effectively through physical activities and hands-on experiences. In contrast to the auditory and visual teaching styles, such students are highly motivated when they can touch, move, and interact with actual materials.

Moreover, they can be least motivated when required to engaged in a traditional verbal environment as some find it difficult to concentrate or even sit still in the classroom context.

The application of kinaesthetic learning

Kinaesthetic learners become particularly engaged when participating in project-based activities, active experimentation, and field work experiences. For such learners’ these activities enhance student engagement, minimise distractions, increase attention spans, and improve knowledge retention.

In conclusion, it is important that kinaesthetic learners fully understand from the outset that such hands-on experiences are only developmental after initially engaging in traditional verbal and auditory studies. Put simply, this learning approach is not some form of shortcut or it should not be applied as entertainment for those with a limited concentration span.

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Questions

1. Is this teaching approach more suitable for some faculty departments than others?

   
   

2. Could activities such as role play or simulations be regarded as a kinaesthetic style?

   
   

3. What is meant by an interpersonal style of learning?

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We shall explore Question 3 in the next blog.