Kinesthetic Learners

The word kinesthetic refers to movement of the body. A person with kinesthetic intelligence, therefore, is one who is well-coordinated, has adept physical and motor skills, and is able to use that coordination to communicate and to produce. People with kinesthetic intelligence usually succeed in careers that involve mobility such as surgeons, athletes, architects, gardeners, and actors. There are tactics and routines people with kinesthetic intelligence can practice in order to become successful in studying and learning.

First, it is important for those with high kinesthetic intelligence to be physically involved with learning. This can include participating in lab experiments and acting out scenarios. Kinesthetic learners should also use all five senses. For example, a kinesthetic learner could actually make a model of something he or she is studying.

Second, because kinesthetic learners generally have great hand-eye coordination, technology is a great interactive tool to use while studying. Games and simulators allow the learner to be physically involved in the learning process by practicing the subject in a variety of scenarios and situations.

Third, writing information down helps kinesthetic learners study. Making lists, taking notes, writing down examples, using concept maps, and collecting photographs are all ways people with kinesthetic intelligence will learn, understand, process, and organize information.

Fourth, when studying for an exam, kinesthetic learners should approach the studying process as they would approach practicing for a big game. For example, a kinesthetic learner can make up practice exams to help review the material. The student can also discuss with the teacher an optional testing method to traditional written exams, such writing and acting out a scene from a play or presenting a project.

Finally, a kinesthetic learner should try to find an academic “coach” for help and support. The coach is not only responsible for providing a support system to the learner, but the coach can help the learner set goals, help to make sure the learner is on track, and provide both encouragement and helpful criticism.

 

Last Updated: June 4, 2019