Recently, I have been discussing how a child’s personality can affect his or her learning in the classroom. An instrument designed by Meyer and Briggs identifies the different personalities of people. The instrument labels an individual by using four characteristics.
The first two characteristics label a person as either being an introvert or an extrovert. The second two labels put people into the categories of being a sensing person or an intuitive person.
The third set of personality types are thinking or feeling. In this article, I will describe the actions and thoughts of a thinking person. I will also describe how a thinking person learns. The most appropriate classroom setting for a thinking person will also be described.
A thinking person puts logic and reasoning into their actions. They want to make sense out of the things that they do. They rarely go with gut instincts and had rather think things through before acting. Thinking persons are typically fair and stay strong to their values. They like to find purpose in life. They look for similar situations to find principles and solve problems.
Thinkers are usually good problem solvers. They like to analyze and critique material. They like for information to be logical and in order. They want tasks to be carried out properly.
Students with thinking personalities enjoy teachers that are orderly and present information in a logical fashion. They have trouble dealing with abstract concepts and want and need meaningful explanations. They like teachers who give detailed goals and feedback. They feel that all students and situations should be treated equally and fairly.
Thinkers do not do well with teachers that make judgments based on thoughts and personal interpretations. Thinkers will look for justification in grades and work assigned. Thinkers need teachers that can support and back the things that are taught and said.