The Magic of Touch: 7 Ways To Explore Tactile Learning

Tactile learning is not the most common learning style, yet it can be an extremely beneficial tool for everyone. The process of using our sense of touch to explore and understand the world is a magical educational approach that deserves all of our attention!

As a special educator who works with students who have learning difficulties, exploring different learning methods is important. The education system is often set for a specific type of student, and those who fall short of any of those qualities end up falling behind.

Thankfully, the situation has gotten better with the introduction of one-to-one aids, continuous professional development sessions, and so on. Essentially, the idea is to make an educational space one that everyone can receive some benefit from, especially life-long learning skills.

Although tactile learning may not be the most common method of teaching students, many people could benefit from experiencing a different medium of instruction. That’s why I’ve garnered these simple tips to implement in your learning that could enrich your experience! Read on for more!

What Is Tactile Learning?

Simply put, tactile learning (or kinesthetic learning) is a type of learning style that mostly uses some form of physical activity. A lot of the time learning doesn’t involve our body much, we always associate it with our minds instead.

This kind of learning is more than just a sensory experience; it’s a dynamic educational tool with profound benefits. It engages multiple senses, enhancing understanding and retention. When we touch, we connect with the physical world in a way that stimulates our brain, fostering a deeper understanding of concepts.

There are many different ways to engage in this learning style, so read on to find out more!

1. Use a Fidget Toy to Engage in Tactile Learning

Studies show that using fidget toys actually help students pay more attention in class, which results in better learning!

This is exactly why those with attention issues often use fidget toys in a learning setting! The simple act of using our hands whilst learning is revolutionary and deserves a place in this post!

Fidgets are also a great way to lessen anxiety for many kids, especially those who have sensory issues.

The great thing about fidgets is that they come in all shapes and forms! Even chewing gum can be a great fidget as it gives your body a physical outlet whilst learning. Try it out the next time you study, you’ll be surprised!

2. Write Down Notes

I know this seems like an obvious tip, but it’s a really important one.

Whether you are a tactile learner or not, taking notes in some shape or form allows you to remember things better. It also gives you a record of all the information you learnt, so you can go back to it at any point.

Writing is something we do by using our bodies, so we engage in tactile learning every time we do this! Exploring different pens, colours, and highlighters also adds to the tactile experience. Mix and match to see what fits you best!

During all of my university years, I would always write down handwritten notes when I was studying for exams. I felt that I would retain more information if I was writing it down myself rather than using a laptop.

At the end of the day though, it’s mostly personal preference that matters here, you can try out different methods and see which one works best for you!

If you’d like to know more about note-taking efficiently, I have a post all about taking efficient and creative notes!

3. Act Out What You’re Learning

You might feel a little shy to do this, but as a tactile learner, this method can help you remember and understand difficult concepts!

Simply reading out your notes can give you a new perspective on what you’re learning. When you’re acting something out, you’re using your body and your voice to explain something.

Some people try to act out what they are learning by pretending they are teaching it! Instead of simply reading the material, you’re engaging with it in a new and creative way.

I’ve personally used this method a lot and it’s kind of like the final ‘revision’ session before an exam. This is usually after I’ve written all of my notes and gone through them multiple times.

If the act of trying this tip out makes you feel embarrassed, you can try playing some low-level background music or white noise that can make you less self-aware. Remember to find somewhere private that you feel comfortable in, ideally, this place is somewhere you consider a comfort zone.

Again, you can do this in the comfort of your own home when no one is around! There is no ‘right‘ way to act out what you’re learning, as long as it’s working for you!

Bonus Tip: Use Rhythm as a Form of Tactile Learning

Last, but not least, is rhythm. Simply tapping across your desk whilst you read something is a great and simple way to use your body!

You can even simply use your legs and tap to a beat whilst you study, it’s an easy and efficient way to engage in this learning style!

Tapping and actions like it are also a great way to subtly stimulate yourself whilst you’re learning. This is similar to how people sometimes have restless legs, there would be a lack of stimulation in their atmosphere.

Conclusion

Although I am mostly a visual learner, tactile learning has helped me retain more information. I have also seen it first-hand help others, and genuinely make people feel confident in themselves again. I truly believe that there is never any harm in trying something out!

In an age where screens dominate our daily interactions, it’s essential to remember the enchantment of touch. Tactile learning is a timeless and invaluable tool that can enhance our education, foster creativity, and deepen our connection with the world. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most magical and transformative are right at our fingertips!