Improving Learning Outcomes of Kinesthetic Learners through a Differentiated Learning Approach

Abstract

Curriculum changes are often implemented without a thorough understanding of the varying learning styles of students, which can differ significantly from one individual to another. In this context, differentiated learning has gained prominence as an approach that addresses the diverse learning preferences of students. Particularly, it is seen as a potential solution to enhance the learning experiences of students with kinesthetic learning styles. This study aims to explore the kinesthetic learning style of fifth-grade students at SDIT Insantama Bogor to inform the design of more effective and tailored learning strategies. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach, the research utilized observations, interviews, and questionnaires to gather data on students' learning styles. The findings revealed a range of learning preferences among the students, with visual learners being the most dominant, followed by auditory and kinesthetic learners. The study highlights the importance of recognizing these diverse learning styles and advocates for the implementation of differentiated learning strategies to better cater to the individual needs of students. By adopting such an approach, the study suggests that students' motivation, conceptual understanding, and overall academic performance could be enhanced. The findings emphasize the need for teaching strategies that accommodate various learning styles, particularly for kinesthetic learners, to foster a more inclusive and effective learning environment.