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November 30, 2010
Learning Styles: Auditory Learners in Groups
Learn what they experience and what they need.
We are continuing in our ongoing series on the connection between learning styles and small groups. Today, we'll discuss the different experiences and needs that Auditory Learners commonly find in a small-group setting. (Here is our recent post on what it means to be an Auditory Learner in general, in case you missed it.)
Like Pigs in Slop
To put it simply, the vast majority of Auditory Learners love the format of traditional small groups. They thrive in it. They are excited by it. That's because traditional small groups are based around one dominant activity: talking.
And while that is a detriment to the Visual and Kinesthetic learners in your group, it makes people with an Auditory bent very, very happy. Consequently, don't be surprised if a large percentage of your group members are Auditory Learners.
That being the case, here are some activities to keep in mind for Auditory Learners:
- Discuss, discuss, discuss. Most small groups are based on discussion, which is a big reason why small groups continue to grow in popularity. Continue giving your people chances to both talk and listen.
- Read Scripture out loud. For some people, reading a Bible verse out loud is a terrifying experience. If that is true for you, it is usually not the case for auditory learners. So when your group is exploring a specific passage of Scripture, ask for volunteers to read the text out loud at least one time during the group meeting.
- Pray out loud. The same idea applies here. Encourage group members to pray out loud if they would like to do so.
- Sing and make music. Don't be afraid to give your group members a chance to verbally express their devotion to God through songs, responsive readings, and spontaneous prayer.
One Caution
Here's one final note about auditory learners: don't be too quick about labeling someone in your group as a person who "talks too much." While this certainly can become a real problem, oftentimes these "overtalkers" are just Auditory Learners who enjoy processing what they have heard in the discussion by speaking and reiterating.
So be sure to take a step back and ask yourself: "Does this person really have a problem, or is he/she just acting differently than I would?"
posted by Sam O'Neal on November 30, 2010 2:12 PM
