Different Cognitive Learning Styles
Different cognitive learning styles: Overview
There are different cognitive learning styles for each person. Each of us has our own styles of learning and thinking. We also have ways of learning and thinking and processing information that we share with others. This shared cognitive style differentiates us from those raised in different linguistic and cultural environments. Knowledge of these similarities and differences is crucial in education. While accepting that students will interact with, and deal with, curricular learning experiences in their own individual manner, curriculum development is often based upon our understanding of the shared elements of the learning process. Numerous strategies exist to assist improving the learning environment and interaction in the classroom for diverse students. One important strategy is to address the instructional implications of cognitive learning styles.
Different cognitive learning styles: Assessment
Each person has different cognitive learning styles which allow us to gather and share information based on our processing habits. Unlike individual differences in a person’s abilities, cognition describes a person’s typical mode of thinking, perceiving, remembering or problem solving. Cognitive style is usually described as a personality dimension which influences attitudes, values, and social interaction. For example, how a person processes experiences and knowledge, and how they organize and retain information, is a cognitive learning style. Some people need to visualize the task before starting. Some people approach learning and teaching sequentially or randomly. Some work quickly or deliberately. These are all examples of cognitive learning styles and their characteristics. The biological basis for cognitive learning styles is grounded in brain theory.
Different cognitive learning styles: Remediation
Since each person has different cognitive learning styles, it becomes a difficult, if not impossible, task to reach every child in a classroom in a specific way. Various researchers have attempted to provide ways in which learning style theory can take effect in the classroom. Children are affected by elements in the classroom (sound, light, temperature) and emotions (motivation, persistence, responsibility, need for structure or flexibility). Also affected are their sociological needs (self, peers, team and adult) and physical needs (perceptual strengths, intake, time and mobility). What is your child’s cognitive learning style? At LearningRx, we have proven methods that train the brain for success. Call a local LearningRx center or go to www.learningrx.com.
