Reflection on learning the topic
researched:
I
have always known about there being different learning styles, also known as
learning modalities. However, I was unaware of the amount of different types of
learners. I was familiar with four modalities, which I feel are the most
common, called auditory, visual, kinesthetic, and tactile. Looking further into
this area I discovered much more. Oddly enough, I feel that even though I was
unaware of the specific naming of the unknown modalities, I still provided
these types of learners with the support they need within my classroom.
Many of the models have different
terminology. However, they seem to fit under the same umbrella and share a
common link. For example, many of the models stay around the same ideas. Take
for instance Kolb’s model, Honey & Mumford’s Model, and the Gregorc Model.
All three of these models look towards the concrete vs. the abstract and share
many of the same ideas. Then, looking at the VAK model and the VARK model the
only difference is the added letter to accommodate reading/writing learning.
Finally, Powell’s model, the Seven Perceptual Styles, and Garner’s Multiple
Intelligences share similar terms, such as, visual and kinesthetic. I believe
this is due to the vast majority of preferences a person has.
An
individual is not going to only learn using one modality. They are going to
learn with multiple modalities, sometimes even at the same time. Though I do
agree that a more preferred option works the best, it feels as if students are
going to learn in one way or another. The conclusion I have reached is that with
all of this evidence of the different perceptual modalities, no one model is
the absolute best. What we can interpret from this is that knowledge is power.
Meaning, that the more modalities we learn, the more we can mix them within our
classrooms to truly make a great experience for our students, as well as for
ourselves. No one model is the best because all of them are important to
understand and utilize.
In
my classroom, I am constantly looking for a way to keep my students motivated.
The mixture of students I teach are the individuals who have thrown in the
towel for their education, especially for their math class. Sure, there is only
so many ways you can make the process of utilizing the quadratic formula
interesting, maybe with a catchy song and dance, but it is my job to work just
a little bit harder to make it more memorable and interesting for my students.
Using a variety of modalities may just help me create lessons that are
rewarding and meaningful for my students. I will continue to research this
topic, and the other topics covered in this class, to make sure I am up to date
with the most current trends in education. As they say, “Don’t reinvent the
wheel!” Why not utilize the vast majority of resources that people have spent
time developing to benefit students and educators?
Reflection on creating the
presentation:
While creating the presentation I
was worried that I would not include all relevant models and facts of
perceptional modalities. There is numerous studies and research available that
explain the way learners extract information from their surroundings and using
their five senses. I chose the majority of models I found to be important to
the explanation of the topic.
While presenting, I wanted to make
sure to provide the viewers with appropriate examples and visuals to help them
understand the main concepts. I felt the examples I provided offered
individuals with realistic ideas and a way to identify a student within the
classroom. I felt my presentation easy to follow and concise. Though I wish I had
added a video to my presentation, instead of just in the handout, I feel it
interested viewers. The visuals supported the information and enhanced the
understanding of the concept.
Reflection on the comments from others
on the task and question:
The comments from others during the
task and question brought up some good ideas and points of view. For instance,
Jyl mentioned within the task discussion how the word “smell” tends to have a
negative meaning, which may be the cause of olfactory learning being the least
preferred on each group member’s preference survey. Laurie also mentioned that how we teach is related to our personal
learning style preferences. In each scenario, I did not reach that conclusion
on my own. It is beneficial to work in groups and discuss. Each person can
bring up different viewpoints.
My colleagues had a well-rounded
discussion and reflection for both the task and question. I think they need to
know how important the perceptual modalities are to the learning process. When
developing courses and structuring activities it is important to pay close
attention to student learning styles and design interventions appropriately.
When we use a variety of modalities at one time it will be more beneficial to
each student involved. Also, I think it is important to try new modalities
within one’s classroom, even if the modality is not a preferred style. For
instance, even though olfactory learning seems odd to me, it could be a huge
benefit to some members of my class. We need to try new things, even when we
are uncomfortable.
