Why do some students understand a lesson instantly while others struggle with the same content? The difference is often not intelligence, but how information is processed. Every learner absorbs and interprets information differently. When tutoring ignores these differences, students may feel disconnected or incapable.
One of the most widely discussed frameworks is the VARK model developed by Neil Fleming, which categorizes learners into Visual, Auditory, Reading/Writing, and Kinesthetic preferences (Fleming, 2023). You can explore the model here:
https://vark-learn.com/introduction-to-vark/
However, research also urges caution. Pashler et al. (2008) argue that there is limited strong empirical evidence supporting strict “learning style matching” improving outcomes. Their critical review can be accessed here: https://journals.sagepub.com/
How Should Tutoring Respond?
Effective tutoring should encourage instructional flexibility rather than strict labeling. The American Psychological Association https://www.apa.org/ (APA, 2019) states that using a variety of teaching techniques improves learning more successfully than depending just on one.
What Are the Implications for Students?
It implies that tutoring need to be multisensory, inclusive, and adaptive. Students are frequently mismatched learners rather than “weak learners.”
PROBLEM-AGITATE-SOLUTION
The Problem
When the teaching approach does not align with their processing style, many students think they are “bad at studying.” Long lectures may be difficult for a student who requires diagrams. During theory-heavy courses, a kinesthetic learner could become restless.
Get Agitated
Confidence may be harmed by this discrepancy. Pupils may internalize failure and believe they are not intelligent. Studies like Pashler et al. (2008) stress that instructional flexibility enhances comprehension but warn against strict learning type classifications (Pashler et al., 2008). Learning becomes robotic and ineffectual when tutoring disregards diversity.
The Fix
Multisensory, adaptive tutoring is the answer, not rigid classification. Tutors build deeper cognitive connections by integrating visuals, debate, writing, and practical experience.
Identifying Your Learning Style
Knowing your preferred method of learning increases the effectiveness of your studies.
Justification
Because the brain encodes information more meaningfully when learning is in line with cognitive abilities, memory retention rises.
For instance
Charts and mind maps are useful tools for visual learners.
Discussion and explanation help an auditory learner retain information.
Detailed notes and summaries are preferred by a reading/writing learner.
A kinesthetic learner absorbs information through practical application or experiments.
According to research from the American Psychological Association (2019), , employing a variety of instructional strategies improves comprehension and engagement, but rigorous “learning style matching” has little empirical backing.
Determining preferences is therefore useful, but adaptability is crucial.
TAILORED APPROACHES FOR DIFFERENT LEARNERS
Visual Learners
Visual learners process information through patterns and pictures. Among the successful tutoring techniques are:
- Idea maps
- Infographics with flowcharts
- Notes that are highlighted
- Videos of demonstrations
According to Paivio’s Dual Coding Theory, memory retention is improved by using visual dual-coding techniques. An overview can be found here:https://www.learning-theories.com
Auditory Learners
Information is processed by auditory learners by speaking and listening. Teachers are able to:
- Promote dialogue
- Make use of vocal repetition
- Use “teach-back” techniques
- Note any justifications.
The social constructivist philosophy of Vygotsky emphasizes how conversation improves cognitive development. Learning to Read and Write: https://www.simplypsychology.org/
Reading/Writing Learners
Textual interaction is preferred by these students. Strategies that work include:
- Organized outlines
- Exercises for summarizing
- Journals for reflection
- Practice writing essays
Writing improves retention by fostering deeper cognitive processing through elaborate practice (Craik & Lockhart, 1972). https://www.simplypsychology.org/levels
Kinesthetic Learners
Action-based learning is advantageous for kinesthetic learners:
- Play a role.
- Simulations
- Laboratory tests
- Case studies from real life
Experience serves as the basis for understanding, according to Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory (Kolb, 1984). Research-library: https://learningfromexperience.com/
BRIDGE, BEFORE, AND AFTER
Before
Because math tutoring sessions primarily employ worksheets and explanations, students find it difficult.
After
The tutor incorporates visual representations, aural discussions, reading and writing practice problems, and kinesthetic, or real-world application.
Bridge
The bridge is an adaptable tutoring approach that modifies the approach rather than the student.
Attention to the AIDA Framework
Every student has a unique learning style.
Interest
Diverse teaching approaches are preferred by scientific study over strict categorization.
Desire
When tutoring is in line with cognitive engagement, students feel inspired and self-assured.
Take action
Tutors should evaluate students’ preferences, use a variety of tactics, and improve their techniques over time.
Conclusion
Since research consistently demonstrates that learning improves when instruction is varied and cognitively engaging rather than rigidly matched to a single style, effective tutoring necessitates adaptability (American Psychological Associatio2019,https://www.apa.org/monitor/2019/Pashler et al., 2008, https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1111/ Different cognitive pathways that improve retention and comprehension are activated when tutors combine various strategies, such as using diagrams for visual reinforcement, promoting discussion for auditory processing, assigning structured writing assignments for deeper reflection, and incorporating hands-on practice for experiential understanding. As a result, learning styles should be viewed as beginning points that direct instructional design rather than as rigid labels that restrict pupils. In the end, adaptability, empathy, and the use of research-based techniques that address students’ changing needs are what really make tutoring effective.
References
American Psychological Association. (2019). The learning styles myth. Monitor on Psychology, 50(8). https://www.apa.org/monitor/2019/09/
Bandura, A. (1997). Self-efficacy: The exercise of control. W. H. Freeman.
Craik, F. I. M., & Lockhart, R. S. (1972). Levels of processing: A framework for memory research. Journal of Verbal Learning and Verbal Behavior, 11(6), 671–684. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0022-5371(72)80001-X
Fleming, N. D. (2023). VARK: A guide to learning styles. VARK Learn Limited. https://vark-learn.com/introduction-to-vark/
Kolb, D. A. (1984). Experiential learning: Experience as the source of learning and development. Prentice Hall.
Mayer, R. E. (2009). Multimedia learning (2nd ed.). Cambridge University Press.
Pashler, H., McDaniel, M., Rohrer, D., & Bjork, R. (2008). Learning styles: Concepts and evidence. Psychological Science in the Public Interest, 9(3), 105–119. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1539-6053.2009.01038.x
Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes. Harvard University Press.
