Learning by example

“We learn by example and by direct experience because there are real limits to the adequacy of verbal instruction.” -- Malcom Gladwell

This quote is very relevant to the importance of employing different approaches in instruction. In addition to catering to students who are more receptive to kinesthetic learning, teachers can also develop activities in which students learn through applying the lessons within the context of a personal experience.

Also, in more general terms, learning by example is one of the most powerful learning strategies. In many occupational fields, academic work merely provides a preliminary foundation upon which the actual experience—gained from on-the-job training—is built.

(Image from http://www.ecrater.com)