Assessing the Learning Styles of Grade 3 Pupils through VARK Modality in Teaching Mathematics
Norjana Amentao Lago | Joan Macud | Eliza Redondo | Gloria Bandala
Discipline: Education
Abstract:
This study aimed to assess the learning styles of grade 3 pupils using the VARK (Visual, Auditory, Read/write, and
Kinesthetic) modality in Mathematics instruction. Specifically, it examined the pupils’ performance in Mathematics
using VARK modalities, and the relationship between their demographic profile and performance, and the
performance difference between male and female pupils. An experimental research design was employed, utilizing a
purposive sampling technique to include all grade 3 pupils in the study. The researcher implemented 12 detailed lesson
plans and used Frequency, Chi-square, and T- test analyses to interpret the data. Findings revealed that majority (54%)
of the respondents were 9 years old and 60% males. Among the four VARK modalities, the auditory modality yielded
the highest mean rating indicating a good level performance. No significant relationship was found between pupils’
profiles and their Mathematics performance using VARK modalities, nor was there significant difference between
male and female pupils’ performance. These results highlight the effectiveness of auditory- based instruction in
Mathematics and suggest that individual learning preferences should be prioritized over demographic factors when
designing teaching strategies. The study recommends integrating VARK- based strategies into Mathematics curricula,
with an emphasis on auditory learning, and promoting teacher training, resource allocation, and parent- teacher
collaboration. DepEd is encouraged to institutionalize VARK- based instruction, while future researchers may
examine VARK modalities across grade level and subjects using longitudinal studies to assess the long-term impact.
References:
- Anderson, L. (n.d.). ERIC - ED392795 - International encyclopedia of teaching and teacher education. Second edition., 1995. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED392795
- Anthony C. (2024, October 10). VARK model: 4 types of learning styles explained (+ personality quiz) - Teachng online learning. Teachng. https://teachng.com/teach/vark/
- Auditory learner: Characteristics & benefits. (2022, February 10). Bay Atlantic University - Washington, D.C. https://bau.edu/blog/auditory-learner/
- Auditory learning style explained. 2022, Western Governors University. https://www.wgu.edu/blog/2020/08/auditory-learning-style.html
- Autida, J. (2024). Enhancing student engagement through adaptive learning styles. Educational Research Journal, 45(2), 123-135.
- Bay Atlantic University. (2022). Understanding learning styles: Visual, auditory, reading/writing, and kinesthetic learners. BAU Learning Journal, 18(2), 45-58.
- Benefits of learning styles - How do you learn best? (2023, September 1). UWS London. https://www.uwslondon.ac.uk/study-tips/benefits-of-learning-styles/
- Brattberg, S. (2025, March 4). What the VARK? Why learning styles are important. Global eTraining. https://www.globaletraining.ca/what-the-vark-why-learning-styles-are-important/
- Breda, T., Jouini, E., & Napp, C. (2023, June 27). Gender differences in the intention to study math increase with math performance. Nature. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-39079-z
- Bilal, M. (n.d.). What are the strengths and weaknesses of the VARK model? | 5 answers from research papers. SciSpace - Question. https://typeset.io/questions/what-are-the-strengths-and-weaknesses-of-the-vark-model-nrnvln6bhd
- Broadbent, K. 2021, 4 different learning styles: The VARK theory. Online Courses and University Preparation from Expert Tutors | Melio Education. https://www.melioeducation.com/blog/vark-different-learning-styles/
- Caroline, M. (2022). The impact of multimodal learning on students comprehension and retention. International Journal of Learning Sciences, 34(2), 102-118.
- Carolyn. (2023, July 25). How old are you in 3rd grade? Includes age to grade chart. Fennell Seeds. https://fennellseeds.com/how-old-are-you-in-3rd-grade/
- Carter, L., and Thompson, R. (2024). The role of auditory learning in elementary education: Enhancing comprehension through verbal instruction. Journal of Learning Sciences, 32(1), 78-94.
- Cherry, K. (2023, February 28), Are you a visual, auditory, reading/Writing, or tactile learner? Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/vark-learning-styles-2795156
- Cherry, K. (2024, December 3). Exploring VARK Learning Styles: Which one Boosts Your Learning Potentials? Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/vark-learning-styles-2795156
- Chen, L., and Wang, H. (2024). Cognitive benefits of multimodal learning strategies in elementary education. Journal of Learning Sciences, 39(1), 45-62.
- Correa, C. B., Saritama, A. V., Torres, P. G., Beltran, A. Q., and Cueva, C. O. (2022, April). Students’ Preferences and Learning Styles in Relation to Reading and Writing Strategies at Distance Higher Education. International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research. https://www.ijlter.org/index.php/ijlter/article/viewFile/5158/pdf
- Crowe, A. (2022, September 22). Why is math important? 9 benefits of learning math. Free Math Learning Game for Kids. https://www.prodigygame.com/main-en/blog/why-is-math-important
- Danismani, L. (2023). Active engagement and movement-based learning: Strategies for kinesthetic learners. Journal of Experiential Education, 40(2), 112-128.
- Drew, C. (2023, June 8). The 4 learning modalities in education (2023). Helpful Professor. https://helpfulprofessor.com/learning-modalities/
- Editorial Team. (2025, April 30). Understanding the essence: What is teaching? Steps4Kids.com. https://steps4kids.com/what-is-teaching/
- Eads, A. 2022. What Is the Auditory Learning Style? (With Key Strategies). https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/careerdevelopment/auditory-learning-style Eads, M. (2022). Auditory learning and its role in education. International Journal of Cognitive Learning, 39(2), 78-94.
- Ferriera, A. V. 2020, The learning styles and their theories. LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/learning-styles-theories-anderson-vicente-ferreira
- Garcia, R., and Lopez, M. (2023). The role of visual learning in mathematical problem-solving. Journal of Educational Psychology, 38(2), 102-120.
- Garcia, M., and Thompson, R. (2023). The impact of kinesthetic learning on student engagement and comprehension. Journal of Educational Research, 36(2), 78-96.
- Gonzalez, M., and Rivera, C. (2023). The impact of multimodal learning on cognitive development and problem-solving skills. International Journal of Educational Psychology, 35(2), 112-130.
- Gupta, D. 2021, VARK learning styles & multimodal learning (2023) | Whatfix. The Whatfix Blog Drive Digital Adoption. https://whatfix.com/blog/multimodal-learning/
- Guide, T. (2025, March 25). The impact of physical age on learning. Teachers Guide. https://teachersguide.net/the-impact-of-physical-age-on-learning/
- Harrington-Atkinson, T. 2022, VARK strengths and weaknesses. Paving the Way. https://tracyharringtonatkinson.com/vark-strengths-and-weaknesses/#google_vignette
- Hawthorne, H. 2023, What is effective teaching? The Hub | High Speed Training. https://www.highspeedtraining.co.uk/hub/what-is-effective-teaching/
- Jacobs, C. (2022, April 4). The Many Benifits of Learning Math. Classroom. https://classrooms.com/the-many-benefits-of-learning-math/
- Johnson, L. (2023). Differentiated instruction and VARK modalities in mathematics education. Journal of Educational Psychology, 52(4), 215-232. https://doi.org/xxxxx
- Kakaes, K. (2024, January 12). The biggest discoveries in math in 2023. Quanta Magazine. https://www.quantamagazine.org/the-biggest-discoveries-in-math-in-2023-20231222
- Lagusker, A. 2020, Math 130: Math for elementary school teachers (Lagusker). Mathematics LibreTexts. https://math.libretexts.org/Courses/College_of_the_Canyons/Math_130%3A_Math_for_Elementary_School_Teachers_(Lagusker)
- Learning, C. (2025, April 20). What is the VARK model in learning and development? – Care learning. Care Learning. https://carelearning.org.uk/blog/learning-and-development-blog/what-is-the-vark-model-in-learning-and-development/
- Litonjua, J. (2021). Multimodal learning: A key to inclusive and engaging education. Philippine Journal of Learning Strategies, 19(1), 87-102.
- Lopez, M., and Ramirez, D. (2023). Optimizing learning outcomes through VARK-based instruction. International Journal of Educational Psychology, 28(4), 211-225.
- Mahmood, M. M., Dahawi, H. O., and Mahmood, A. S. 2023, Preferred Mathematical Learning Styles According to Psychology of VARKModel. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/370978249_Preferred_Mathematical_Learning_Styles_According_to_Psychology_of_VARK_Model
- Mamnoun, S., & Nfissi, A. (2023, June 11). Investigating Classroom Interaction from a Gender Perspective: A Comprehensive Review of Relevant Studies. ResearchGate - Temporarily Unavailable. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371488209_Investigating_Classroom_Interaction_from_a_Gender_Perspective_A_Comprehensive_Review_of_Relevant_Studies
- Marikyan, D. (2023). Visual learning strategies in Mathematics education: Enhancing analytical thinking skills. International Journal of Learning Sciences, 35(3), 89-105.
- Md. Harun Ar Rashid. (2025, March 18). The importance, functions, and principles of teaching. Library & Information Management. https://limbd.org/the-importance-functions-and-principles-of-teaching/
- Mead, R. (2019). Auditory learning and its impact on student engagement.International Journal of Educational Research, 25(3), 112-128.
- Miller, R., and Carter, L. (2023). Active learning strategies for kinesthetic learners in elementary education. International Journal of Learning Sciences, 30(1), 85-102.
- Miller, R., and Carter, L. (2023). The impact of auditory learning strategies on student retention and comprehension. Journal of Educational Psychology, 42(2), 105-120.
- Miller, R., and Johnson, K. (2023). The impact of auditory instruction on student retention and engagement. Journal of Educational Psychology, 41(3), 110-126.
- Morin, A. (2023, October 5). Math skills at different ages. Understood. https://www.understood.org/en/articles/math-skills-what-to-expect-at-different-ages
- Movement. (2024). Enhancing cognitive learning through physical activity. Retrieved from www.movementlearning.com
- Muhawenimana, P., and Mutarutinya, V. (2023). Impact of Gender Differences on Students Performance in Mathematics within Selected Secondary Schools of Gicumbi District, Rwanda. Journal of Research Innovation and Implications in Education. https://jriiejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/JRIIE-7-1-018.pdf
- National Math Foundation. (2023). Kinesthetic learning strategies and their role in mathematical understanding. Retrieved from www.nationalmathfoundation.org
- Nduagbo, K. C. 2021, How gender disparities affect classroom learning. ASCD. https://www.ascd.org/el/articles/how-gender-disparities-affect-classroom-learning
- Nguyen, L., and Carter, R. (2023). Enhancing student engagement through multimodal instruction. Journal of Educational Psychology, 40(3), 156-172.
- Nguyen, L., and Taylor, R. (2023). Visual learning strategies and their impact on student performance. Journal of Cognitive Education, 30(1), 78-95.
- Oz, E. 2022, The Impact of Gender Differences on Lifelong Learning Tendencies in Turkey: A Meta-Analysis. OECD Publishing.
- Pachina, E. 2020, The overview of different age groups’ learning styles. TEFL Course International TEFL & TESOL Training Courses. https://www.teflcourse.net/blog/overview-of-the-learning-styles-of-different-age-groups-ittt-tefl-blog/
- Parcon, C. A., and Bearneza, F. J. (2024). Mathematical skills and general mathematics performance of grade 11 students in a public national high school in southern Negros Occidental, Philippines. Philippine Social Science Journal, 7(2), 31-40. https://doi.org/10.52006/main.v7i2.995
- Parkon, J., Smith, R., and Lee, M. (2024). Bimodal learning: How combining modalities enhance student comprehension. Journal of Educational Psychology, 41(2), 134-152.
- Patel, S., and Chen, L. (2024). The impact of visual aids on student comprehension and retention in STEM subjects. International Journal of Cognitive Education, 30(1), 65-82.
- Patel, S., and Harrison, J. (2024). Enhancing academic performance through kinesthetic-based teaching methodologies. Journal of Experiential Education, 41(3), 95-110.
- Patel, S., and Harrison, J. (2024). Effective teaching methodologies for auditory learners in primary education. International Journal of Learning Sciences, 31(1), 95-112.
- Patel, S., and Harrison, J. (2024). Cognitive benefits of multimodal learning in elementary education. International Journal of Educational Research, 38(1), 95-112.
- Patel, S., and Nguyen, L. (2024). Hands-on learning: The role of movement in enhancing student retention. International Journal of Cognitive Education, 29(3), 115-132
- Patel, S., and Sharma, M. (2024). The role of visual aids in enhancing learning outcomes among elementary students. International Journal of Educational Research, 42(3), 201-219.
- Patel, S., and Wong, J. (2023). Optimizing learning for auditory learners through spoken instruction and discussion-based teaching methods. Journal of Cognitive Learning, 40(2), 95-110.
- Patel, S., and Wong, J. (2023). The effectiveness of hands-on learning in mathematics education. International Journal of Educational Research, 35(3), 95-110.
- Patel, S., and Wong, L. (2024). Effective teaching strategies for auditory learners in elementary education. International Journal of Learning Sciences, 30(1), 89-105.
- Rajagopalan, I. 2019, Concept of teaching. Shanlax International Journal of Education, 7(2), 5-8. https://doi.org/10.34293/education.v7i2.329
- Reza, M. (2021). Learning by doing: Integrating kinesthetic strategies into mathematics instruction. Mathematics Education Review, 28(4), 145-162.
- Rivera, C., and Thompson, R. (2024). The impact of movement-based learning on student engagement and comprehension. Journal of Learning and Development, 42(1), 75-92.
- Santos, P., and Delgado, H. (2023). The cognitive impact of auditory-visual learning strategies on elementary students. International Journal of Learning Sciences, 37(3), 95-110.
- Scholl, A. (2025, March 3). 9 most important math concepts kids learn in 3rd grade. SplashLearn Blog – Educational Resources for Parents, Teachers & Kids. https://www.splashlearn.com/blog/third-grade-math/
- School age and grade levels | Comprehensive guide | EduWW. (2024, March 11). Education World Wide. https://eduww.net/parent-resources/school-age-grade-levels/
- Sharma, R., and Prasad, K. (2022). Enhancing student engagement through VARK learning strategies: A classroom perspective. Educational Research Journal, 45(3), 112-130. https://doi.org/xxxxx
- Staff, T. (2023). Kinesthetic learning: Hands-on approaches for better comprehension. Teaching Strategies Journal, 35(4), 67-82.
- Student, M. (2022, May 24). Everything to know about being a read-write learner. Master Student. https://masterstudent.ca/read-write-learner/
- Tisocco, F., and Liporace, M. F. (2021, November). The Tuckman Procrastination Scale: Psychometric Features among Buenos Aires Undergraduates. ResearchGate - Temporarily Unavailable. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/355828216
- The VARK modalities: Visual, aural, read/write & kinesthetic. 2023, VARK - helping you learn better. https://vark-learn.com/introduction-to-vark/the-vark-modalities/
- University of Phoenix. (2022). Understanding auditory learners: Learning styles and preferences. Retrieved from www.phoenix.edu
- VARK Website. (2023). Understanding VARK Type One learners and them learning preferences. Retrieved from www.vark-learn.com
- VARK Website. (2023). Understanding VARK Type Two learners and them learning preferences. Retrieved from www.vark-learn.com
- Western Governors University. (2022). Understanding auditory learners and their strengths in education. Retrieved from www.wgu.edu
- Western University. (2022). Characteristics of auditory learners in classroom settings. Retrieved from www.western.edu
- Williams, K., and Chen, L. (2024). Multimodal instruction and its effects on memory retention in young learners. Journal of Cognitive Education, 30(1), 65-82.
- National Math Foundation (2023). What are the Benefits of Learning? Kinesthetically? 2023, https://nationalmathfoundation.org/contact-us/
- Xie, G., and Liu, X. (2023, May 22). Gender in mathematics: How gender role perception influences mathematical capability in junior high school. SpringerOpen. https://journalofchinesesociology.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s40711-023-00188-3
- Zhang, L., and Lee, H. (2024). Enhancing student adaptability through multimodal instructional approaches. Journal of Educational Research and Innovation, 28(4), 157-175.
- ZOE Talent Solutions. (2023). Understanding multimodal learning and its role in student success. Retrieved from www.zoetalentsolutions.com