The Physical Learning Style

Collective Learning - By Lindsay Benitez

The physical learning style is characterized by utilizing the body and sense of touch to understand the world around us. Some examples of physical learning include using physical movements, describing feelings associated with actions, and using physical objects during learning activities. A physical learner, also known as a kinesthetic learner, enjoys studying new material by moving around and touching or feeling objects.   Kinesthetic learners often pursue very physical activities such as construction and repair, drama, dancing, and athletics. If you are wondering whether you are a physical learner, ask yourself if you enjoy solving problems and ideas during exercise. This learning style can be used when introducing new material, or an unfamiliar topic, in an educational setting by including activities. Rather than relying on traditional lecture and listening in a classroom, physical learning encourages the students to get up, move around, and stimulate psychomotor skills. This concept is closely linked with Bloom’s Taxonomy of learning in action, a well-known theoretical framework within the education and training field.    In an effort to improve your physical learning style, try incorporating the following ideas when presented with new information:

Create and use flashcards

Utilize body anchors

Write and draw things out

Focus on breathing and relaxation to focus

Practice role-playing techniques

As we discuss each of these learning styles, my hope is that not only will you begin to notice which styles you gravitate toward, but that you will also improve your overall ability to learn by incorporating aspects of a variety of methods. Using multiple learning styles involves more regions of the brain. The more regions of the brain involved in learning, the more likely the new concepts will be part of your long-term memory. Take note of which styles help you learn, and incorporate a wide variety of learning methods.