Inclusive Teaching: Understanding Learning Styles as a way to support pupils with SLCN within the classroom.

In the dynamic classroom environment, every child brings a unique set of skills, strengths and challenges. As a teacher/TAs, it's our responsibility to ensure that no child is left behind. This means not only understanding the diverse learning styles present in our classrooms but also providing tailored support for children with Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN).

Understanding Learning Styles: The Key to Inclusive Teaching

One of the fundamental principles of inclusive teaching is recognising that children learn in different ways. Some may thrive through visual stimulation, while others excel with hands-on activities. By understanding and accommodating these diverse learning styles, teachers can create a more inclusive learning environment where every child has the opportunity to succeed.

Types of learning styles

• Visual: Children who learn through seeing. Visual learners understand best by seeing; they grasp concepts through visual cues and demonstrations.
• Auditory: Children who learn through listening. Auditory learners excel in discussions and learn effectively through verbal instructions.
• Tactile: Children who engage in touch-oriented learning. They thrive on hands-on activities, absorbing knowledge through touch.
• Kinesthetic: Children who thrive in action-driven learning environments. These learners love movement and learn best in dynamic settings.

Identifying pupil’s learning styles

1- Start with Observation: Begin by closely observing your students' actions, interests, and preferences to gain valuable insights into how they process information.

2- Highlight Strengths: Instead of focusing solely on areas where students may struggle, prioritise recognising and celebrating their strengths and favourite activities.

3- Acknowledge Individual Interests: Understand that each student, regardless of challenges, has unique interests and preferences that can serve as powerful motivators for learning.

4- Foster Collaboration: Engage with colleagues and support staff to compile a comprehensive inventory of meaningful learning resources tailored to your pupil' needs.

5- Pose Thoughtful Questions: Consider important factors such as pupils' preferences for certain activities, their levels of physical activity, and their responses to different instructional methods:

• What types of activities do they enjoy the most? Are they more inclined towards quiet or active engagement?
• Do they show particular interest in activities like reading and drawing? Do they respond better to visual or verbal instructions?
• Are they actively engaged in physical activities? Do they demonstrate a preference for hands-on learning experiences?
• Are they drawn to specific subjects or types of content, such as numbers and patterns, or do they show interest in other areas?

Adapting Teaching Approaches for Inclusivity

Adapting teaching approaches to accommodate diverse learning styles requires flexibility and creativity. Here are some strategies that you could start applying:

1. Differentiated Instruction: Tailor lesson plans to meet the individual needs of each child, providing multiple pathways to learning.
2. Multisensory Learning: Incorporate a variety of sensory experiences into lessons to engage children with different learning preferences.
3. Flexible Grouping: Allow children to work in small groups or pairs, where they can support each other and learn from their peers.

Supporting Children with SLCN

Children with Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN) face unique challenges in the classroom. These challenges can affect their ability to express themselves, understand instructions, and interact with their peers. As teachers, it's essential that we provide targeted support to help these children thrive.

Key Strategies for Supporting Children with SLCN:

1. Visual Aids: Use visual supports such as pictures, diagrams, and charts to reinforce verbal instructions and concepts. Colourful Semantics teaching approach is one of the many ways you could use to support your pupils.
2. Clear Communication: Speak clearly and concisely, using simple language and avoiding complex sentences.
3. Scaffolded Learning: Break tasks into smaller steps and provide additional support as needed to help children with SLCN achieve success.

Inclusive teaching ensures that every child, regardless of their learning style or challenges, has the opportunity to learn and thrive. By understanding learning styles and providing targeted support for children with SLCN, teachers can create a truly inclusive learning environment where every child feels valued and supported.

If you are interested in upskilling yourself to better support your pupils, explore our wide range of on-demand courses. From Colourful Semantics, Emotional Regulation, Identifying and Supporting Children with SLCN to Intensive Specialist Settings. You can now access Here! (Interested in Bundles or School Accounts? Contact us Here!)

Additionally, don’t miss out?our monthly live training conducted by our highly experienced Speech and Language therapists, check them out: Live Training