People process information in a number of different ways. The way in
which a person processes information is known as his or her learning
style. If you can identify your own learning style, you can then
develop strategies for assimilating new information. The three basic
learning styles are Visual, Auditory, and Kinesthetic.
Visual Learning Style
More than half of people are visual learners. For them, information
about the world around them comes in through their eyes. They like to
see how to do things rather than hear about them.
Visual learners like charts and diagrams to illustrate a concept.
Demonstrations work well with this learning style. They also respond
well to information presented in the form of a video.
A visual learner would prefer to read a report rather than listen to
the information presented orally. They may be avid readers who can see
things in pictures. Making lists is very important to people with a
visual learning style.
Auditory Learning Style
The auditory learning style is not a common one. About 30% of the
population are auditory learners. This type of person responds well to
information presented as a lecture or a speech.
A person with an auditory learning style can recall in great detail
what another person has said. It isn’t important to them where the
voice is coming from; they don’t need visual aids like the visual
learner does.
A person with an auditory learning style may remember a person’s name
readily enough but find remembering a face more challenging. They may
especially find noise distracting. When in school, they can take notes
if required but the information is not meaningful until they have heard
it.
Kinesthetic Learning Style
The kinesthetic learning style is one in which the person “learns by
doing." This type of person likes to take a hands-on approach to new
information. In class, a person with this learning style may make
movements that mimic those of the instructor.
People who are kinesthetic learners are very aware of textures. If they
are learning a practical skill, they want to jump right into performing
the activity rather than hearing the instructor describe it. Sitting
still and listening may prove difficult for the kinesthetic learner.
These are the people who want to build models to demonstrate what they
have learned. In school, they probably especially enjoyed field trips.
They can describe what they have physically experienced or performed,
recalling things they have seen or heard is more difficult.
Why Learn About Learning Styles?
If you understand your own learning style, you can adopt strategies to
help you in school and on the job. If you know that you are a visual
learner, you may want to organize information in the form of a chart or
a diagram. Mind maps will make sense to you; use them often. Use images
and colors as much as possible.
Auditory learners need to read information aloud so it makes sense to
them. They are very well equipped to absorb information on a tape or an
audio CD. A person with this type of learning style can use rhymes,
songs, or word games to remember facts.
For a kinesthetic learner, courses with a practical/lab component would
be good choices. They may be attracted to careers as artists, actors,
construction or engineering.
By taking the time to determine what your learning style is, you will
be able to work and study more efficiently. There is no right or wrong
way to learn; it’s just that different people process information in
different ways. Find a way to make your particular style work for you. http://www.instant-audio-learning.com/
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
