More is better: Address multiple learning styles

What are learning styles?

The term learning styles refers to a theory that there are different types of learners. This theory is related to the idea that there are “multiple intelligences.” Each of us uses a combination of learning styles but, theoretically, we each have a dominant learning style that works best for us. Some experts claim there are three basic types of learning styles:

1. Visual (learns best by seeing pictures and images)
2. Auditory (learns best through listening to words, sounds, music)
3. Tactile/kinesthetic (learns best by physically doing something, touching, moving)

Others claim that the list is longer, including:

1. Verbal (learns best by using words both in writing and speech)
2. Logical (learns best by using logic and reasoning)
3. Social (learns best by learning in groups or social situations)
4. Solitary (learns best by oneself)

You can find out what your own learning styles are by taking a learning style inventory. There are several free ones available to try. See “Where to go from here” at the end of this article for links to a few. I took several versions of this test while I was studying for my teaching credential. They all gave me similar results­—which were no surprise to me. I’m foremost a visual learner, and secondarily a tactile/kinesthetic learner. I have always had trouble learning by sitting in a classroom or seminar and just listening to a lecture. If I have visuals to look at, it helps me retain the information much better. For example, when I need directions to a place, I print out both the written directions and the Google map. I rely on both to find my way. When I’m learning about something new, I always want to touch it or try it. Touching or physically interacting with it helps me learn and understand it better. Some people would rather read about it, or hear a lecture about it.

Page 2 of 3

Previous Page

Next Page