I can empathize with the idea that students sometimes don't ask questions because, they may not know "what to ask" if they don't have understanding of the lesson.  Teaching many ESL students I can attest that questioning in an inviting and patient tone along with positive reinforcement on the part of the answer that was correct really encourages future participation and motivation to keep learning. 

Understanding the the different learning styles really allows the instructor to show empathy towards the individuality of the student. For example I learned that some students can actually learn while there is music on and tossing the ball around while memorizing. Its opened my eyes to recognize they are not being distracted but trying to learn!