People learn in different ways. Our learning style is distinctive to us, that’s why when taking new information in, we all process differently.
There are three different ways we learn. We either learn by moving or doing (tactile/kinesthetic), seeing (visual) or hearing (auditory). Learning styles can encompass how a person manages information so he can remember it. Most of us have one primary learning style through which we best learn and receive information but some people don’t fit into just one learning style, but learn in multiple ways through a combination of two or more of these learning styles.
What is an auditory learner?
Auditory learners make up about 30% of the population. They absorb information best through hearing or listening and learn best through verbal instruction. Auditory learners process information that they hear and the incoming information is filtered through their listening and repeating skills. They also prefer talking about a situation and expressing emotions verbally. This type of learner enjoys listening but cannot wait to talk at the same time. They thrive in discussions, debates, and speeches, and are said to be able to recall at least 75 percent of the material they hear.
Characteristics of an auditory learner:
- Enjoys talking.
- Enjoys music.
- Remembers names.
- Talks to self out loud.
- Hums or sings often.
- Likes and is good at explaining things to others.
- Recognises variations in a person’s tone of voice.
- Notices sound effects in movies.
- Likes being read to or reading to self out loud.
- Remembers things by repeating them aloud.
- Follows spoken directions well.
- Likes being around other people and is not afraid to speak out.
- Understands concepts better by talking about them.
- Has difficulty handling distracting noises and are distressed by background noise.
- Has difficulty following written directions, but is good in study groups.
- Reads slowly.
- Unable to keep quiet for long periods.
- Enjoys the performing arts and have no problems being on stage.
When presenting information to an auditory learner, a parent or a teacher should describe and explain the concepts thoroughly. They should also give directions verbally and paraphrase key information to help them to prepare to take the new information in. Once we understand a person’s learning style, we can provide them the motivational experiences which can help them learn better and increase their confidence and abilities.