By Ellyn Elson
We’ve all heard (and even uttered) the phrase: “There are many ways to learn.” And yet, it seems that modern (elementary?) education relies on a narrow set of tools: narrative-heavy visual materials, often computer-based. This works well for some. For kinesthetic learners, who represent roughly 30 – 40 % of our children, it spells, if not disaster, at least a disproportionate struggle, especially in the sciences.
Who are kinesthetic learners? How do they learn?
Kinesthetic learners retain information through movement and touch. They learn best by doing and through physical engagement. Coloring, which is similar to taking notes by hand, allows for this kind of engagement. Highlighting, underlining, drawing diagrams, and manipulating objects (like flipping through pages) all contribute to their learning process.
These students thrive on activities that involve movement, hands-on exploration, and physical engagement. For these learners, some academic topics are especially challenging. For example, science can sometimes be a subject that is heavy on theory and memorization. Traditional teaching tools – books, and increasingly computers and other online resources– can be limiting for kinesthetic learners. The lack of tactile stimulation and the sedentary nature of computer use can be draining for these people.
This is where coloring comes in.
Coloring, a unique learning tool, can be particularly effective for kinesthetic learners in science, surpassing the use of a computer in many ways.
Coloring engages multiple senses: Choosing colors, using crayons or pencils, and staying within the lines all provide tactile and kinesthetic stimulation. This physical engagement helps kinesthetic learners retain information better and more readily.
Coloring science diagrams reinforce visual learning: Filling in colors helps learners differentiate parts of a cell, for example, or visualize the structure of an atom. This visual association strengthens their understanding of scientific concepts.
However, computers can still be beneficial for kinesthetic learners in science, especially if used strategically:
- Interactive simulations:Certain computer programs allow for manipulation and exploration in a virtual environment. If the activity involves movement and problem-solving, like building virtual molecules, it can be engaging for kinesthetic learners.
- Educational games:Games involving movement or physical activity, like Kinect-based learning games, can be a good option for kinesthetic learners in science.
The best approach might be multimodal.
Coloring worksheets or diagrams can be used alongside interactive computer programs or educational games to create a well-rounded learning experience that caters to kinesthetic learners’ strengths. While there isn’t a wealth of research specifically on kinesthetic and visual learners comprehending science through coloring, there is evidence that supports the general effectiveness of coloring for both learning styles. Here’s how we can connect the dots:
Kinesthetic Learners:
Kinesthetic engagement and memory: Studies on kinesthetic learning highlight the connection between physical movement and memory retention. This aligns with how coloring provides tactile and kinesthetic input while learning science concepts.
Visual Learners:
Color and visual processing: Research shows that color can enhance visual processing and memory. Coloring science diagrams strengthens visual associations with scientific concepts, which benefits visual learners.
Combined Benefits:
Multimodal learning: Coloring integrates visual and kinesthetic elements, creating a multimodal learning experience. Research suggests that multimodal learning approaches can be effective for various learning styles. Multimodal learning includes teaching methods that engage multiple sensory systems simultaneously.
Limitations of current research:
It’s important to acknowledge that the research on learning styles and coloring in science education is still developing. More specific studies are needed to definitively prove the effectiveness of coloring for different learning styles in science.
Even though specific research might be limited, the existing evidence on kinesthetic learning, visual processing, and multimodal learning suggests that coloring can be a valuable tool for kinesthetic and visual learners in science.
Coloring pages that are specifically designed for science learning can be a great way for kinesthetic learners to engage with scientific concepts. These coloring pages often include images of scientific phenomena, such as the solar system, the cell, or the human body. Kinesthetic learners can learn by coloring these images, as the act of coloring helps them to focus on the details and internalize the information.
Coloring goes beyond just being a fun activity for students. It holds surprising importance in the learning process, especially for younger learners and kinesthetic learners who benefit from hands-on engagement.
Here’s how coloring can boost learning:
- Fine Motor Skills Development: Coloring strengthens the muscles in the fingers, hands, and wrists. This improved dexterity lays the groundwork for better handwriting and manipulating small objects.
- Concentration and Focus: Coloring requires staying within lines and focusing on the task at hand. This repetitive action helps train the brain to concentrate for longer periods.
- Creativity and Self-Expression: Choosing colors and filling in shapes allows for creative exploration. This freedom can spark imagination and help children express themselves visually.
- Color Recognition and Knowledge Reinforcement: Coloring pages can be designed around specific learning themes. As children color a picture of the solar system or a plant cell, they absorb information through the process.
- Relaxation and Stress Relief: Coloring can be a calming and therapeutic activity. Focusing on the act of coloring can help children process emotions and unwind, making them more receptive to learning.
Kinesthetic Learners and Science: Coloring becomes particularly beneficial for kinesthetic learners who struggle with traditional, theory-heavy learning methods in subjects like science. Coloring science-themed pages allows them to engage with the material in a hands-on way. Here’s how:
- Visual Learning: Kinesthetic learners absorb information visually by coloring detailed images of scientific phenomena, strengthening their understanding.
- Internalizing Information: Coloring helps learners focus on specific details and commit them to memory.
By incorporating coloring strategically, educators can make learning more engaging and effective, especially for kinesthetic learners.
