Reading questions 3

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What I did:  I read pp. 9-11 of Multimodal Learning through Media: What the Research Says (2008, Metri Group).  I reflected on the reading and answered the review questions.


What I Learned:  See my answers to review questions.


NETS-T:  This relates to:
- Standard 5c, which states that teachers "evaluate and reflect on current research and professional practice on a regular basis ... in support of student learning."  It is advisable for teachers to keep up with this kind of research to understand how students learn.
-Standard 2c, which states that teachers "customize and personalize learning activities to address students' diverse learning styles..."


How I can use this:  Discussions of memory (esp. working memory) come up frequently in eligibility meetings (for special education).  I will have more current knowledge to use in these discussions.

My Learning Styles Reflection

My VARK Questionnaire Results:  I was close in my guess.  I guessed that I was Visual, Aural and Solitary.

What did I do? I took the VARK test to determine my learning strengths. According to the online test, my scores were Aural-5, Read/Write-5, Visual-4, Kinesthetic-2.  According to the test, I have a multimodal learning preference (like many other people).  All of these go with my background as a violinist and pianist.  Aural would be a developed strength for me because, as a violinist, I must constantly hear and adjust my own pitch and blend with other musicians. I rely on written music because I don’t memorize well.  Playing an instrument is a physical action, so that would be the kinesthetic.

What did I learn? Use this link to view my responses to the test questions.  This is not the first time I have done modalities testing.  This has come up in my coursework and in inservices since around 1993.  I have used surveys in connection to myself, my children and my students. I find it very interesting.  However, all the assessments have been pencil-and-paper.  These papers end up being cumbersome, piling on my desk as more people take them. I was pleased to find this online test. It gives instant results, so discussion can take place right away.

NETS-T: This activity related to standard 2a which states that teachers "design or adapt relevant learning experiences that incorporate digital tools and resources to promote student learning and creativity."

Students will find that this is a test that promotes introspection.

How to use it? I like to use modalities tests at the beginning of the school year to re-engage students into the learning mode.  My students and I will appreciate this online test for its immediacy of results and the discussion that follows.

My Learning Styles

I have studied this topic several times over the course of my teaching career.  These are the traits I consider to be my learning styles. 1)  Visual.  I have a photographic memory and I tend to “think in pictures”.  I learned how to read before kindergarten.  I am a very good speller.  2) Aural.  Music has been a big part of my life.  I was a music education major in my undergraduate days, violin major.  3) Solitary.  I like teamwork, but I like doing my portion alone, then contributing.  I like things “my way” and I appreciate “my time”.