We all learn differently. Getting clear on how you uniquely receive, process, and understand information will go a long way in helping you to study successfully and perform well throughout your high school career and beyond. In today's blog we will take a closer look at each of the three main cognitive learning styles: visual, auditory, and kinesthetic.
01. The Visual Learner
Visual learners receive, process, and understand information through what they see. As such, visual objects like pictures, drawings, graphs, charts and other visual demonstrations are great learning tools for visual learners.
As a visual learner, you may find yourself able to read body language well, as well as perception of aesthetics. Memorizing nd being able to recall information that is written down or learn from lectures by watching them, are all characteristics of visual learner.
Tips for improved learning as a visual learner
Find ways to visually represent ideas by turning notes into charts, maps, pictures, tables, and other visual options
When in class avoid sitting by windows and doorways to avoid distractions
Use color codes (via different color highlighters and pens) to outline points in your notes as well as use color-coded flash cards and sticky notes.
02. The Auditory Learner
Auditory learners are able to process and retain information through hearing and speaking. As an auditory learner, you are likely to concentrate better while music is playing in the background, may have talents in music, and may summarize points out loud in order to better remember them.
Additionally, auditory learners may notice the nuances in (different aspects of) someone else' speaking voice.
Tips for improved learning as a auditory learner
Record and replay lectures and notes when studying
Reiterate (or repeat) material aloud in your own words ; including reading textbooks aloud
Listen to instrumentals (music without words) while studying)
Discuss materials in study groups
03. The Kinesthetic Learner
While some students learn through listening (auditory) and others through seeing (visual), others need a hands-on approach to really learn the material being taught.
Kinesthetic learners are usually very good at the sciences and math, and would rather participate in a demonstration than anything else. Work groups where demonstrations are center-stage are also preferred.
Tips for improved learning as a kinesthetic learner
Due to the physicality o your learning style as a kinesthetic learner, the following tips will prove useful for you.
Take regular study breaks
Chew gum while revising
Revise your work while standing or while otherwise being active (such as jogging or walking on the treadmill)
Finally, seek out instructors who are practical in their approach (where possible). These instructors usually put an emphasis on demonstrations, as well as, fieldwork and other real-life experiences.
Figuring Out Which Learn Style Best Suits You
While it is highly likely that your learning style fits mostly into one of the above styles, chances are you may see some residual traits in other styles as well. After all, you are a dynamic human being who may not fit neatly (or 100%) into only one learning style. Sometimes, one learning style may suit you better depending on the nature of the subject you are studying.
As such, it helps to revisit styles as you move from one subject area to the next, or even as you get older and your preferences and affinities change with time. It is okay to change your mind and habits (for the better) in light of new information.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Three (3) main learning styles and how they impact the way you will process information and learn as you take classes and courses throughout your high school career.
Were you able to figure out which learning style defines you? If yes, which tis do you think will work for you? Let us know in the comment section below.
Now It's Your Turn!
Like, share, and comment on this post to help us spread the word as we continue the fight to support under-resourced patients and students in The Caribbean and Africa.
Comments