From color-coders and chatterboxes to quiet notetakers and hands-on builders, students absorb information in all kinds of ways. That’s where the 8 learning styles come in. While they aren’t hard science, they’re widely recognized as a helpful framework for understanding how different learners tick—and how you can meet them where they are.
Keep reading for classroom-ready strategies tied to each of the 8 learning styles—or explore how ViewSonic Education Software can support diverse learners today!
Before jumping into the individual styles, though, there’s one question that always seems to come up—and it’s worth pausing on:
Are Learning Styles Real? What Educators Need to Know
You’ve probably heard it before: “Every student has a specific learning style.” But is that actually true?
Well, it depends on who you ask.
Some experts argue there’s no strong evidence that tailoring your teaching style to a student’s learning preference improves results. Others say it’s less about hard proof and more about understanding how students like to learn—and using that insight to connect more effectively.
So where does that leave us? One popular approach for understanding how students learn is the VARK model.
The Classic Four: Neil Fleming’s VARK Model
Introduced by Neil Fleming in 1987, the VARK model breaks learning preferences into four easy-to-remember types:
- Visual – Learners who love diagrams, charts, and images.
- Auditory – Learners who process best by hearing and discussing.
- Reading/Writing – Those who connect through written words.
- Kinesthetic – Learners who thrive when doing or touching.
If you’re curious where you fall, try the VARK self-assessment—it’s quick and surprisingly revealing.
Going Beyond the VARK Model
Still, not everyone agrees that four types cover it all. In fact, psychologist Scott Barry Kaufman pointed out in a 2018 Scientific American article that researchers have proposed anywhere from 3 to 170 different learning styles. That’s a wide spectrum—and a reminder that no single model can capture every learner’s experience.
There is good reason to believe that optimal learning for everyone involves the opportunity to engage in as many sensory modalities as possible.
Scott Barry Kaufman
One of the most compelling alternatives is Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences. Introduced in 1983 in his book Frames of Mind, Gardner challenged the idea that intelligence is a single, measurable thing (like IQ). Instead, he proposed that we all have a unique mix of 8 intelligences, each shaping how we think, learn, and interact with the world.
Why Learning Styles Matter in the Classroom
Even if the science isn’t clear-cut, one thing remains clear: students don’t all learn the same way—and that’s worth paying attention to.
Mixing things up—talking, drawing, building, writing—not only taps into their preferences, but also keeps your lessons fresh and your students engaged. That same variety matters online too. These quick reads on synchronous and asynchronous learning show how learning preferences still shape engagement, whether you’re teaching live or building self-paced lessons.
So with a healthy mix of curiosity (and just a dash of skepticism), let’s take a closer look at the 8 most popular learning styles—and how to make each one work in your classroom. Odds are, you’ve got all of these 8 learning styles in your classroom right now.
8 Learning Styles Every Teacher Should Know—Plus Practical Tips
Exploring the different learning styles isn’t about labeling students—it’s about growing your toolkit so you can reach more learners in ways that truly stick. We’ll break down each of the 8 learning styles, highlight what makes it unique, and share practical strategies you can start using right away.
Think of this as inspiration, not a checklist.
1. Visual (Spatial) Learning Style: Teach with Charts, Colors, and Imagery
Visual-spatial learners are the ones who reach for a highlighter before you’ve even said “underline.” Abstract ideas often won’t land for them unless they’re laid out visually. Diagrams, color-coding, timelines—these tools all help the lesson click. Think about a history class: isn’t it so much easier to recall a sequence of events when it’s laid out in a simple, color-coded timeline with icons?
So when a concept isn’t landing, try not to just re-explain—re-show..
Best Strategies for Visual Learners
- Organize information: Use charts, graphs, and infographics—myViewBoard is perfect for enriching lessons with multimedia content.
- Deepen understanding: Use visual metaphors to make abstract concepts relatable. Mind-mapping and visual storytelling work well too—digital whiteboarding software makes it easy to collaborate.
- Make it big, bold, and interactive: Use an interactive display to spotlight diagrams, annotate in real time, and keep visuals front and center.
Visual tools aren’t just for visual learners—they’re also a huge support for multilingual students who may lean on images while they build language skills
Watch Out For
A good-looking visual doesn’t always mean deep understanding. Too much decoration can cloud the message, so encourage clean, purposeful design. When students create visuals, ask them to explain their thinking—how they organize and represent ideas often says more than the design itself.
2. Auditory Learning Style: Boost Retention Through Sound and Speech
Auditory learners pick up on tone, rhythm, and phrasing—often recalling exactly how something was said. They come alive during discussions and may hum or talk quietly as they work. Silent reading and solo writing don’t always work for them; they need to hear information—and often say it out loud—for it to truly stick.
How to Teach Auditory Learners Effectively
- Engage with sound: Use read-alouds, audiobooks, and podcasts to bring content to life. Digital whiteboarding software with text-to-speech features can make written material more accessible—and way more engaging.
- Promote verbal processing: Incorporate class discussions, Q&As, and structured debates. Having students talk through their thinking builds clarity and confidence.
- Support memory through rhythm: Introduce rhymes, songs, or chants—especially for facts and vocabulary.
- Encourage voice-based study: Let students record voice notes or verbal reflections to review later. Interactive learning platforms like ClassSwift supports audio responses—perfect for language learning and building speaking confidence.
These strategies don’t just help auditory learners—they enrich classroom culture. Peer discussion, collaborative talk, and creative audio projects also benefit social learners and help multilingual students practice academic language.
Watch Out For
Don’t assume all talking equals learning. Make space for structured, purposeful talk—not just chatter. Also, keep an eye on those who might appear distracted but are listening closely. Some auditory learners process best while doodling, moving, or even looking away.
3. Kinesthetic (Physical/Tactile) Learning Style: Engage Students with Hands-On Activities
These are the students tapping pencils, shifting in their seats, or asking, “When do we get to do something?” Kinesthetic learners don’t just enjoy movement—they need it. They learn best by doing, so when everything stays on paper or screens, they often check out. But get them moving, and it clicks—like the student who finally understood fractions by cutting and rearranging paper. It wasn’t just visual—it was hands-on, and that made all the difference.
Tactile Learning Tips for Kinesthetic Learners
- Make it physical: Use experiments, role-plays, or classroom simulations. Think science labs, skits, or real-world scenarios that bring learning to life. Add in interactive displays to keep students interacting with lesson content.
- Use materials they can touch: Manipulatives, models, or even craft supplies help turn abstract concepts into something concrete. Tools like Tinkercad let students build digitally, too.
- Add movement to routines: Rotate between stations, or do quick “stand if you agree” polls to keep energy up during review.
- Support hands-on note-taking: Let students doodle, sketch, or build while they work. Whether it’s using myViewBoard, blocks, or foldables, active hands can lead to active thinking
Movement helps more than just kinesthetic learners—it breaks up passive learning, boosts focus, and can be a game-changer for students who struggle with sit-and-listen formats.
Looking for practical ways to weave movement into your setup? Here’s how to make your classroom more active.
Watch Out For
Don’t mistake movement for misbehavior. When kinesthetic learners fidget or shift in their seats, they’re often trying to stay focused. At the same time, avoid treating movement as just a reward—it’s a vital part of how these students learn and stay engaged.
4. Verbal (Linguistic) Learning Style: Harness the Power of Language
Verbal learners love words—spoken, written, or performed. These are your poets, debaters, journalers, and storytellers. Unlike auditory learners who focus on hearing information, verbal learners thrive on using language—crafting ideas, choosing words, and playing with phrasing. In other words, they express understanding best when they can write or talk it out.
Top Teaching Ideas for Verbal Learners
- Write it out: Journals, reflections, and creative prompts help students process ideas through writing. Platforms like Storybird make it fun and easy to share their written work.
- Play with words: Try vocabulary games, puns, or challenges. Some interactive whiteboard apps even let you download pre-made vocabulary games for quick, engaging word work.
- Let them speak up: Encourage presentations, debates, or spoken word.
Encouraging verbal expression builds communication skills for all learners—and gives your word-lovers a space to shine.
Watch Out For
Don’t confuse verbal with auditory learning. Verbal learners thrive on expressing through language—not just hearing it. Make sure they’re doing the talking or writing, not just listening to it.
5. Logical (Analytical/Mathematical) Learning Style: Get Problem Solving
These are your “why?” students—not to challenge, but because they need things to make sense. They thrive on structure, patterns, and clear cause-and-effect. Abstract concepts don’t always land right away. In math, for example, algebra might feel too disconnected. But apply those same principles in physics—using formulas to explain how the world works—and suddenly it all clicks.
Effective Learning Techniques for Logical Learners
- Create If-Then Logic Chains: Use statements like “If X happens, then Y results” to explore cause-and-effect—great for breaking down science experiments, historical turning points, or character decisions.
- Sort and Justify: Group concepts, data, or characters into categories and explain the logic behind each choice.
- Investigate a Mystery: Present a scenario with clues to solve. Whether it’s a scientific error, a historical twist, or a character’s hidden motive, let students use evidence and deduction to figure it out.
Logical tasks sharpen thinking for all students—and provide a steady, focused approach that works well for those who crave order.
Watch Out For
These learners can get lost in the details. If they’re stuck zooming in, help them step back and see the big picture. Not everything has a perfect formula—and that’s okay.
6. Interpersonal (Social) Learning Style: Help Students Thrive Through Collaboration
Social learners thrive through interaction. They process ideas by talking them out—through discussion, peer feedback, or teamwork. You’ll often see them thinking out loud, building clarity as they speak. While they can manage independent work in short bursts, they’re most engaged when working with others.
Think of the student who struggled with a new science concept until they explained it to a partner. By putting the idea into words, they clarified it for themselves.
Engaging Activities for Social Learners
- Collaborate with purpose: Small group projects, partner tasks, and collaborative writing work well- especially with real-time collaborative tools like Google Docs and Microsoft Word.
- Keep it expressive: Debates, simulations, or skits let them learn through action. Digital whiteboarding is great for building ideas together.
- Encourage leadership: Let them lead warm-ups, breakout groups, or mini-lessons. It builds confidence and communication skills.
Watch Out For
These learners can accidentally take over, so to keep things balanced, assign rotating roles, set clear expectations, and make time for individual reflection.
7. Intrapersonal (Solo) Learning Style: Support Solo Study and Reflection
These are your deep thinkers—the ones who may not speak up much but often turn in the most insightful reflections. Group work and noisy classrooms can overwhelm them, but give them autonomy, quiet time, and meaningful choice, and they shine. They’re not disengaged or shy—they just need space to think.
Classroom Approaches for Intrapersonal Learners
- Begin with quiet solo tasks: Start lessons with journaling, reading, or personal goal-setting to help them settle in and focus. Apps like Notion, Google Keep, and OneNote are great for organizing thoughts.
- Build in regular reflection: Incorporate mindfulness or simple self-assessments to encourage reflection without requiring discussion.
- Offer flexible project options: Let students choose how to show what they’ve learned—through writing, visuals, or creative formats.
Quiet time benefits everyone—but for intrapersonal learners, it’s essential. Making space for independent thought builds confidence, critical thinking, and ownership.
Watch Out For
Don’t mistake their quiet for disengagement. Intrapersonal learners are often deeply tuned in—just not outwardly expressive. Give them room, and they’ll surprise you with the depth they bring.
8. Naturalistic Learning Style: Bring Nature into the Learning Process
Naturalistic learners light up when a lesson connects to the world around them. They’re observant, curious, and drawn to patterns and systems in the natural world. They might struggle with abstract content, but give them a chance to see it in action, and they’re all in.
So how do we bring the outside world into the classroom—even when we’re stuck inside?
Nature-Based Ideas for Naturalistic Learners
- Connect lessons to the environment: Use local weather data, plant cycles, or sustainability projects. Digital tools like Google Earth are great for bringing nature into the classroom.
- Get outside (if you can): A quick nature walk, leaf collection, or sketching session can spark curiosity. If outdoor time isn’t an option, use presentation tools with embedded videos to bring the outside in.
- Use systems thinking: Whether it’s food webs or the water cycle, these learners light up when they see how things connect. Use analogies like growth, balance, or cycles to make abstract ideas feel even more relatable.
Bringing in nature builds relevance and curiosity for all learners. It also supports mindfulness, observation skills, and a deeper understanding of systems across subjects. Psst—looking for ideas? Check out these tips on bringing nature into your classroom design.
Watch Out For
Don’t treat this learning style as a bonus or “add-on.” Even in non-science subjects, naturalistic learners can thrive through nature-based analogies, data collection, and system-based thinking.
The Takeaway
You might recognize these 8 learning styles in your students—or maybe even yourself—but in the end, it’s not about labeling. It’s about staying open to the many ways learning can happen. Most learners are a blend of styles, not a perfect fit for just one approach (or one of the 170 theories out there!). And even if each student did fit just one style, you’d still be managing a mix of preferences in any classroom. That’s why Howard Gardner acknowledges that anything you truly understand, “you can describe and convey … in several ways.”
When you keep that mindset—especially with students facing learning or behavioral challenges—you open more doors to connection, support, and growth. So go ahead—mix it up. Try a new approach or two this week. You never know what might click, or who it might help shine.
If you’re looking for more ideas to reach your students’ learning styles, then dive into our tips on Interactive Presentation Ideas. Or, why not check out how to build a classroom fit for diverse learners?