Do students need to know their learning style

Everyone has his own way of learning. This way is different from others. Your way of learning as a student will affect your understanding. Also, you need to discover your preferred method when it comes to studying. The student that is able to learn by hearing is not the same as one who prefers to learn by visualizing.

It is a journey a student should take to find out his way or style of learning.

Why a student needs to discover his learning style

Our brain absorbs information differently. We do not have the same abilities to acquire information. Some students tend to read about the subject instead of watching videos and vice versa. One widely discussed theory is the VARK model (Visual, Aural, Read/Write, Kinesthetic) proposed by Neil Fleming. This model indicates that individuals have preferred learning modalities that influence how they acquire information best.

For instance, some students might prefer reading (Read and Write), while others might prefer watching videos (Visual and Aural). Furthermore, understanding learning styles can substantially reduce frustration and inefficiency in the learning process. This helps students to learn fast and easily because they learn in the right way. However, when students try to study in ways that do not align with their preferred learning styles, they often face difficulties in comprehension and retention of information.

How to know my learning style

There are four main styles: Visual, Aural, Read and Write, and Kinesthetic. Firstly, students should try all of them and notice which one works for them. For instance, if I want to know my learning style, I will start with Visual, Aural, Read or Write, then Kinesthetic. After a week or two of doing this, I would conclude which one suits me.

What is visual learning?

Visual learning is an educational style where students absorb and retain information through visual aids. Students prefer to use images, diagrams, charts, graphs, and other visual representations to improve memory retention. Also, visual learners often find that they grasp concepts more effectively when information is presented visually.

Signs of a visual learner:

Preference for visual aids: Learners understand concepts more easily when they are presented with diagrams, charts, graphs, or images.

Strong visual memory: Students remember information better when it is paired with visuals. They can recall a picture or layout with greater ease than text or verbal explanations.

Color-coding: Learners tend to organize their notes or materials using different colors to categorize information.

Mind mapping: Learners enjoy using mind maps or flowcharts to organize thoughts and ideas, and it is easy for them to see connections visually.

Visual imagery: Students frequently create mental images or visual scenarios and process and preserve new information quickly.

Drawing or sketching: Learners find that doodling or sketching while listening to lectures or reading helps them concentrate and remember important points.

What is aural learning?

If you like to listen while learning new information, you might be an aural learner. Also aural learning known as auditory learning, it is a learning style where individuals absorb information through listening. They excel in environments that involve lectures, discussions, and audio materials, such as podcasts or audiobooks.

These learners remember information more easily when it is presented verbally. To optimize their learning experience, they can employ various strategies. They might record lectures to revisit later, participate in study groups to discuss concepts, or use mnemonic devices and rhymes to memorize information.

Traits of an aural learner:

Strong listening skills: Aural learners are good at listening and remember information better when they hear it spoken.

Preference for verbal communication: Students prefer discussions and conversations to reading or writing and enjoy group settings when exchanging ideas aloud.

Enjoyment of music and sound: They might concentrate better if they listen to music or sounds.

Preference for audiobooks or podcasts: Instead of reading, they may prefer to listen to audiobooks, podcasts, or lectures because they understand better.

What is read and write learning?

I tried this learning style and found it helpful, perhaps because I am a read and write learner. I did it by summarizing a lesson in my own words after reading it. This style involves reading and writing. Students who prefer this style enjoy reading new information rather than listening or visualizing. Students who prefer this method can do it by underlining, highlighting, and making notes in the margins of their reading materials and writing a brief summary in their own words after reading a passage. Also, they delve to reflect on journals about what they've learned.

Signs of a read and write Learner:

Enjoys reading, likes to take notes, expresses thoughts clearly, uses lists and outlines, and relies on handouts and texts.

What is kinesthetic learning?

This style is very different from others. It is characterized by a preference for hands-on experiences and physical engagement. Kinesthetic learners thrive in environments that give them a space to participate actively in the learning process through movement, manipulation, and experimentation. A kinesthetic learner may excel in subjects that force them to conduct experiments like science, or in physical education, where movement is integral to the learning experience.

Avoiding common mistakes

Some students choose the style that doesn't suit their personality. This mistake is a common pitfall in the learning process. They think the subject they are studying is very hard; in fact, it is a matter of their way of learning.

As a student, you should try all these styles and see what fits you; you might use all of them, as each one may work well in some lessons and not in others. For instance, a kinesthetic learner may find it challenging to absorb information from textbooks alone. However, it may be more effective for them to engage in interactive activities or simulations.

The impact of learning styles on long-term learning

These learning styles have a big impact on long-term learning. When you align with one of these styles, it will be easier for you to understand your lessons and save time from trying styles that don't suit you.

Tips to identify your learning style

Self-reflection and analysis

Reflect on previous learning experiences. Ask yourself questions like: What types of classes did I perform well in? Did I prefer hands-on activities, group discussions, or reading assignments? This can provide insight into your preferred learning style as you analyze past successes.

Furthermore, pay attention to your way of learning. Do you feel more engaged with visual aids like diagrams, or do you prefer listening to lectures and discussions? As a student, you need to do your best to recognize what makes you comfortable while learning.

Finally, consider the feedback you’ve received from teachers, peers, or mentors in the past. Were there specific comments about your strengths in certain types of learning?

Learning style assessments

Various online platforms offer free quizzes designed to help you identify your learning style. These assessments typically consist of a series of questions regarding your learning preferences and habits. Some popular assessments include the VARK questionnaire, the Learning Styles Inventory, and Gardner's Multiple Intelligences test.

Feedback from educators and peers

Many students can benefit from insights offered by their educators. In some cases, teachers have a unique perspective on a student's participation and performance in class. If you’re unsure about your learning preferences, discussing them with a teacher or mentor can be incredibly beneficial.

Experiment with different learning techniques

Experiment with different learning techniques to see which ones resonate with you. For example, if you suspect you might be a visual learner, incorporate diagrams, charts, and color-coded notes into your study sessions.

If you think you might be an auditory learner, record lectures or discussions to listen to later. Also, keep track of your performance and engagement levels with different methods. Note which techniques lead to better retention and understanding of the material.

Journaling your learning experiences

Journaling can help you track your study habits, techniques, and preferences gradually. Document your feelings about different learning experiences, what worked well, and what didn’t. After a few weeks of journaling, review your entries to identify patterns in your learning preferences. This reflective practice can provide deeper clarity into your learning style.