B: Aboriginal Learning Styles

The way we classify learning styles is cultural. While the information provided about learning styles so far will help you get an idea of how you can help your learner, it is important to keep in mind that there are other ways to define learning styles.

We have discussed the importance of using approaches that take into consideration your learner's preferred learning style. For example, visual learners can learn much more quickly if they can see the information in print. Auditory learners prefer to hear new information and find it is easier to remember information when it is presented in this form.

Although it is important to tailor your approach when introducing new material, finding ways to use approaches that involve all the senses is also a good idea. All the approaches can work well with learners as they learn English.

Just as you should try to use an integrated approach that uses all the senses, the Aboriginal approach to learning and learning styles (as described in a speech entitled "Prior Learning Assessment Recognition: Applications for an Aboriginal Model of Holistic Learning") advocates an integrated approach that focuses on the physical, the mental, the intuitive and the emotional. ⁵

Physical
Body - Doing or Acting on it

Spirit
Intuitive - Seeing it - Visioning

Mental
Mind - Knowing it - Understanding

Relational
Emotional - Relating to it - Feeling

⁵ Dianne Hill, "Prior Learning Assessment Recognition: Applications for an Aboriginal Model of Holistic Learning." Joe Duquette High School. Saskatoon, November 16, 2001. Used with permission from Dianne Hill.