While there are many commonalities between people in terms of how they learn, individual learners may have different strengths and may be more or less comfortable with a specific modality or method of learning. An awareness of learning preferences can help an instructor develop a course that will be readily accessible by a wider variety of students, but learning preferences do not need to be confused with a learning need. Consider different types of learners in order to improve the course experience, honor the skills each student brings to class, and spark ideas for new teaching strategies.
- Howard Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences: Explore how students’ different strengths can be leveraged to improve learning.
- Kolb’s Four Stages of Learning: Identify four stages of learning, and read about how the way a student relates to each stage shapes their learning preference.
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For ideas about how to incorporate these theories into your own teaching, you may request assistance from the Center for Instructional Technology and Training.