Learner characteristics

Learner characteristics are what make our students different to each other. It is a very general term that can include their motivation, preferred learning styles, learning strategies they use and there previous learning experiences.

In class we looked at different learning styles. Can you complete the learning styles below?
V_________
A_________
K_________
G_________
In_________
R_________
Im________

Take a look at this course book extract and firstly identify the target language.

What type of learner do you think these activities would be suitable for? How could we change the activity to make it more appealing to kinaesthetic, auditory and group learners while still keeping the focus on prepositions of place?


Of course learning styles is only on part of learner characteristics. The students' knowledge and use of learning strategies is also a key difference between one student and another. Can you remember how CCEL helps students to develop and practise their own learning strategies? What does ILP stand for? What is a synonym for independent in this context?

Learning styles and learning strategies can also be influenced by a student's previous learning experience. Perhaps a student come from a culture where the teacher is the centre of the learning environment. The idea of a student-centred classroom where group work, peer teaching etc. takes place might be a bit of a shock to them. In this case the teacher is responsible for easing the transition into this new environment. We must be non-judgemental while explaining the reasons for our teaching approach and make sure the students see the learning outcomes of our activities.

Take a look at this excellent article by Scott Thornbury on how to balance the needs of an individual while also encouraging group work.