How is Tactile learner defined | Photo: Shutterstock
Are you wondering what learning style suits you best? Or which one helps you achieve the best learning outcomes whether it is for academic pursuit or professional growth?
In this article, you’ll find yourself might be a tactile learner. So what does it mean by the tactile learner, are they someone who loves hands-on activities and multi-sensory learning? Is it beneficial to follow tactile learning, and what are tips and strategies to tactilely learn everything quickly? Everything you need to know about Tactile learner and Tactile learning is here. So, Let’s go over all of them.
Table of Contents:
- Who is a Tactile learner?
- What are examples of Tactile learners?
- When and Where is Tactile Learning Effective?
- Why is Tactile Learning Important?
- What are the differences between Tactile and Kinesthetic Learners?
- Teaching Strategies for Tactile Learners & Tactile Learning
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final thoughts
Who is a Tactile learner?
A tactile learner is someone who learns best through physical activities and direct physical experiences. They are more comfortable with learning when there is something tangible to touch or move. As opposed to book-based learning, tactile learners need to get their hands dirty to learn best and excel.
What are examples of Tactile learning?
In some instances, those who often enjoy activities such as cooking, arts and crafts, woodworking, martial arts, sports, building, tinkering, drawing, or dancing are more likely tactile learners.
Tactile learners also tend to be more engaged in class when they can physically interact with the material. They like to take notes with their hands, take objects apart and put them back together, draw diagrams, or engage in hands-on projects. For example, tactile learners are likely to enjoy activities that involve building, such as using Lego or STEM kits.
Another example of Tactile learning is Virtual reality (VR) simulations or other interactive simulations that can provide tactile learners with immersive experiences that simulate real-world scenarios, allowing them to interact with the simulated environment physically.
Related: Visual Learner | What it means, and How to Become One in 2023
An Example of tactile learners using creative cutting to Learn the Concepts | Photo: Shutterstock
When and Where is Tactile Learning Effective?
Tactile learning can be effective in a variety of situations as follows:
In a classroom setting, tactile learning can be incorporated into activities such as sorting objects by size and shape, counting physical objects, measuring items such as blocks or pencils, or constructing models. In a larger group environment, tactile learning can be enabled through activities such as obstacle courses or scavenger hunts to promote hands-on learning.
Throughout the schools, this style can also be a neutral method in learning everyday life skills, such as time management, food preparation, navigating public transportation, or practicing first aid.
Tactile learning can be best suitable for subjects like science where there are needed experiments. In particular, through conducting experiments, tactile learners can physically manipulate equipment, mix substances, and observe the outcomes, which all lead to better knowledge absorption.
Especially, for kids from ages zero to three, there is no better learning style than Tactile Learning as it is time that children learn through the senses, particularly through the sense of touch.
Why is Tactile Learning Important?
Tactile learning allows individuals to personalize their learning experience and take an active role in constructing knowledge. Tactile learners can explore, experiment, and discover information through physical interaction, which fosters a deeper understanding of concepts. This active involvement also promotes critical thinking.
Tactile learners often like to join real-world applications and problem-solving scenarios. By engaging in hands-on activities, they can develop practical skills and better understand how concepts apply in real-life situations. This promotes the transfer of knowledge from the learning environment to practical use.
As tactile learners are actively involved in the learning process rather than passively receiving information, they are likely to develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to analyze and apply knowledge in different contexts.
What are the differences between Tactile and Kinesthetic Learners?
These concepts at first sound like the same because they share the same learning styles but also have some key differences which distinguish them from each other.
Tactile learners are those who mainly learn by touching and doing. They enjoy manipulating objects, experiencing materials, and engaging in active exploration. Kinesthetic learners are those who mainly learn through physical and body movement. These learners prefer classes that involve active participation and lots of movement. For example, they may enjoy courses such as P.E., dance, or yoga.
Tactile learners benefit from courses that allow them to physically interact with materials, such as science labs or art classes. During classes, they may engage in activities like taking notes on physical cards, building models, or solving puzzles. In contrast, kinesthetic learners thrive in types that provide interactive activities and allow for more physical movements. They may prefer activities like playing simulations, participating in role-playing exercises, or working individually or with a group to solve problems.
In addition to physical manipulatives and activities, tactile and kinesthetic learners also need a supportive and understanding environment with plenty of room to explore. It is also important to provide them with access to resources that allow them to explore concepts in a tactile and kinesthetic manner.
Related: Kinesthetic Learner | Best Ultimate Guide in 2023
Teaching Strategies for Tactile Learners & Tactile Learning
In this part, we will explore several ways that educators can effectively use tactile learning strategies in the classroom:
- Creating visuals with 3D objects and materials like blocks or LEGOs can be a great way to help students take in new material in an interactive way.
- Sorting objects into different categories, connecting things with one another, and building structures can all help engage students and help them understand the material better.
- Utilizing Team-Based Learning or cooperative projects which gives students opportunities to work together to develop a tangible outcome.
- Drawing: Guide them to sketch scientific processes, create visual representations of complex ideas, or draw diagrams to explain concepts.
- Providing different types of materials (e.g., colored paper, foam, or cardboard) to enhance the sensory experience with creative cutting activities.
- Practicing with quizzes can be an effective strategy for tactile learners to engage with the learning material. It is also the best method to test their knowledge and reinforce the concepts they have learned. It won’t take a lot of time and effort to deliver appealing quizzes by using online quiz creators like AhaSlides.
Related: 15 Innovative Teaching Methods with Guide and Examples (Best in 2023)
Give learners time to instantly interact with the knowledge they have learned during class
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it good to be a tactile learner?
Certainly, being a tactile learner can be advantageous in many ways. They engage their learning process with the sense of touch, which enhances their ability to make connections between different concepts and apply knowledge in diverse contexts.
What do tactile learners struggle with?
Tactile learners may struggle with learning environments that primarily rely on passive listening or reading. They may find it challenging to engage with purely theoretical or abstract concepts. They may also face difficulties in environments that lack hands-on activities or opportunities for physical exploration.
Are kinesthetic learners rare?
It is estimated that kinesthetic learners make up approximately 5-15% of the general population, although these numbers are not universally agreed upon. There isn’t any guarantee of a certain learning style for the whole life because learning preferences can also evolve over time based on experiences and educational strategies.
Final thoughts
It is vital to note that learning outcomes show best when surrounded by a supportive and interactive environment that promotes both mental and physical development. Tactile learning is not only helpful for children to thrive but also for adults to upskill. However, tactile learning is just one of many effective learning methods. Learners can combine different learning styles to reach exceptional academic and work performance. For trainers, don’t hesitate to take advantage of AhaSlides to help your class be more captivating and productive.
Ref: Wgu
