x min read
Introduction
Becoming an excellent learner is a highly demanding skill in today’s world that many people are searching for. One of the most important pieces to that complex puzzle is the understanding of how you learn.
If some learning method, tip, or hack that someone online told you would work, that didn’t; it’s likely because it didn’t suit your learning style.
In this long-awaited blog post, we’ll dive into the different learning styles that there are and how you can leverage yours to learning anything you wish in even less time.
What is a Learning Style?
Learning styles refer to the characteristic ways in which individuals absorb, process, and retain information. These styles encompass cognitive, emotional, and environmental factors that shape the learning experience. Recognizing one’s learning style can lead to more effective studying, improved retention, and enhanced problem-solving abilities.
The VARK Model
The VARK model, developed by Neil Fleming, categorizes learners into four styles:
Visual (V)
Auditory (A)
Reading/Writing (R)
Kinesthetic (K)
Types of Learning Styles
1. Visual Learner
Definition: Visual learners prefer to process information through images, charts, and other visual aids.
A majority of people are visual learners, so if this is you, you actually got pretty lucky! In order to actually study effectively as this type of learner, consider utilizing mind maps, diagram, flashcards, or any other type of imagery in regards to what you’re studying.
From personal experience, if you are this type of learner, I seriously suggest watching any videos online on the topic that you are studying. Most educational and informational videos tend to be packed with imagery and animations to help you grasp a topic as easy as possible. Even better, it’s all slowly (or at least properly) introduced to viewers, so there’s no need to consistently
2. Auditory Learners:
Definition: Auditory learners grasp information best through spoken words, discussions, and lectures.
Auditory learners is another great one. The main disadvantage here would probably be if you didn’t have access to headphones, bluetooth, or anything alike. Of course, playing audio out lead is totally fine, but if you aim to multi-task and keep yourself busy with something else while also learning (through audio), getting your hands on a pair of headphones will be gold.
For some suggestions, consider participating in group discussions, listening to recorded lectures, and listening to educational podcasts. And for even better results, read aloud to reinforce your current understanding.
3. Reading/Writing Learners:
Definition: Reading/writing learners thrive on written words, preferring to learn through reading and taking notes.
Without a doubt, this is the best type of learner to be. Unfortunately, not everyone is blessed with this type of learning style. So, if this is you, I suggest create detailed written notes, engage in written reflections, and developing study guides or summaries.
If you need more assistance in grasping large pieces of information and beefy topics, I suggest reading my most recent post (before this one) on memorization.
4. Kinesthetic Learners:
Definition: Kinesthetic learners learn best through hands-on experiences and physical activities.
Last but not least, we have the hardest one to target and the rarest type of learner on this list. Use hands-on experiments, incorporate movement into study sessions, and create interactive projects or models will be your best friends.
BUT, although this type of learning style is the hardest to target, it also works for ANYONE.
Don’t believe me? Well, take the time when you did a science lab in Chemistry class (or some random science class that you’ve taken). When you were seriously focused in the lab, and prioritized getting everything right and meeting all the requirements, wasn’t it easy to remember what you learned?
That right there was a prime example of putting kinesthetic learning into practice. It works because you’re actually jumping into the real-life environment of that concept, rather than just watching it from afar.
Actionable Step
List 1 thing that you wish to learn very heavily. Is it math? Is it history? Is it finance? Is it space? Choose a concept that you have been wanting to learn for even some time now, and put it to the test in this “experiment”.
Next, I want you to choose any out of the 4 methods above to learn that said concept. PLEASE be sure to choose a method that is actually suitful for that concept. Watching others solve math problems won’t make you a better problem solver, it’ll make you a better observer and commenter. After all, math is the one subject in school that can only be mastered with practice. So, reading and viewing images won’t do you any good.
Then, do it. Apply that method to that concept and learn for as long as you need to. The goal is to get the information engraved in your brain for as long as possible, and get it out of your short-term memory.
After a week, I want you to quiz yourself on that concept. If you remember it well enough, then that method you chose will be your best friend for learning. Otherwise, it’s time to switch and repeat the process once again.
Conclusion
Recognizing and embracing diverse learning styles is crucial for fostering effective education. Whether you’re a student, teacher, or lifelong learner, adapting to different styles properly can enhance your comprehension and retention to an extent that you couldn’t even imagine.
By acknowledging the uniqueness of each learner, we are able to create an environment that celebrates the multifaceted nature of the learning experience.
