I teach psychology, and I'm curious if anyone has any effective techniques for relaying difficult concepts, models, and theories, which can be quite abstract, in a fashion that suits a kinesthetic learning style? In other words, how can we translate the abstract to the concrete and make the learning process suit this type of learner?

What are some effective ways at gauging student's unique fears or concerns at the very beginning of a course? Is it appropriate to ask students, either in class or on a written questionnaire, to express their personal anxieties about the course and their ability to succeed? And how can we go about addressing students' unique needs without granting them special allowances and without prying too much into their personal lives?