Verbal and Linguistic Learning Styles
- The Stanford-Binet assessment grouped test-takers according to the hypothetical construct of intelligence. Using assigned scores, test-takers would be grouped as genius, gifted, average, below average and low. Educators noted that the Stanford-Binet test relied on questions from verbal and linguistic abilities. Researchers such as Dr. Howard Gardner saw other intelligences and potential in learners. Become familiar with learning styles, specifically the verbal and linguistic intelligences, to enhance and develop human learning.
- Many learning styles inventories offer information on the verbal and linguistic styles. These inventories serve as guidelines regarding current strengths in learning styles and multiple intelligences. The inventories are a qualitative assessment to give a snapshot of a learner's familiarity with the verbal and linguistic learning styles. The inventories can help with the reflection process after taking the assessment. People who show little ability in traditional verbal and linguistic tests may discover other aspects of these learning styles, such as crossword puzzles and creative writing. The results can serve as a guide for further study.
- Practice plays a vital role in accessing verbal and linguistic learning styles. For traditional testing practice, test booklets or online activities offer opportunities to listen, speak, read and write as much as possible. A journal or log records ideas and reflections. Documentaries and lectures provide opportunities to listen and take notes. For DVDs and videos, closed captioning adds another print resource. Writing short summaries and opinions helps to develop comprehension. Discussions with other participants can include forums and short reports. Other practices include creative verbal and linguistic efforts. One example is rewriting or re-telling traditional folk tales. Writing journals, blogs, fiction or non-fiction enhance verbal and linguistic styles.
- An understanding of learning styles informs the assessment and test-taking process. A knowledge of learning styles gives a framework for a test with questions geared for verbal and linguistic styles. Knowing how to approach verbal and linguistic question types provides confidence and strategies for the verbal and linguistic task. Examples such as spelling tests often require writing or speaking out loud. Participants can understand that a certain assessment will focus on abilities related to verbal and linguistic learning styles. At the same time, alternative assessments can acknowledge achievements through other learning styles for a whole approach to assessment.