The impact of context on learning style
There has been a lot of research into using an individual learning type to create teaching, but researchers have needed help demonstrating their overall effectiveness in learning. While each of us is pre-wired with a learning style that we are naturally inclined to favour. We learn best when information that suits our learning style is presented. However, the context in which we are learning is a critical variable in the learning style.
There are three types: visual learners, auditory learners, and kinesthetic learners. The VARK survey is a quick way to determine your preferred style. For example, I am an extreme read-write preference (11) followed by a kinesthetic learning style (2) and aural (3). This reinforced the importance of context consideration — for example, if I am in front of a computer screen, reading/writing is my preference. If I were talking to the dog for a walk, then aural would work as my context is different.
Visual Learners See
If you’re a visual learner, you learn best by seeing the information. You like to take pictures or make charts and graphs to help you understand and remember information. You might also prefer to read texts or watch videos instead of listening to audio recordings.
So, how can you use your learning style to hack your learning journey? Here are some suggestions:
1. Take advantage of apps like Pinterest and Evernote. Create visual boards or notes to refer to when you need a reminder. Use a notes app on a tablet to use a stylus. Or use an old-school notebook to sketch your ideas when you think about them.
2. Use a mind map to brainstorm ideas or study for exams. This will help you visually see the connections between concepts.
3. Make use of highlighters and coloured pens when you’re studying. This will help you to focus on the critical information and make it easier to recall later.
4. Pair them with a visually stimulating activity like drawing or doodling when listening to audio recordings. This will help keep your mind engaged and prevent you from getting distracted.
Auditory Learners Listen
If you’re an auditory learner, then you learn best by listening. You like to listen to audio recordings or lectures instead of reading texts. You might also prefer to have conversations so that you can hear the other person’s voice and get a better understanding of the information.
So, how can you use your learning style to hack your learning journey? Here are some suggestions:
1. Make use of apps like iTunes U or Audible. You can listen to and learn from a wealth of educational recordings.
2. Try attending webinars or podcasts that are relevant to what you want to learn. This way, you can listen and learn at your own pace.
3. When studying for exams, try listening to recordings of the lectures instead of reading the textbook. This will help you to remember the information better.
4. Talk with knowledgeable people about the topic you want to learn. This will help you to understand the information better and ask questions if you need clarification.
Kinesthetic Learners Do
If you’re a kinesthetic learner, then you learn best by doing. You like to be interactive and hands-on when learning so that you can better understand the concepts. You might also prefer to learn through trial and error instead of being told what to do.
So, how can you use your learning style to hack your learning journey? Here are some suggestions:
1. Use apps that allow you to be interactive and hands-on with the content. Some examples include Quizlet and Socrative.
2. Try to find opportunities to practice what you’re learning. For example, if you’re learning a new language, try to find a conversation partner to practice speaking.
3. When studying for exams, try to find ways to apply the concepts that you’re learning. This will help you understand and remember the material for the exam better.
4. Take breaks often when you’re studying. This will help you to stay focused and prevent burnout.
No matter what type of learner you are, there are ways that you can use your learning style to hack your learning journey. Understanding how you learn best can set you up for success. So, what are you waiting for? Start hacking your learning today!
Finally…
Each learner has a unique way of learning, and context is critical to understanding which style might work best for any situation. Visual learners learn best by seeing things, auditory learners learn best by hearing things, and kinesthetic learners learn best through interactive activities. The first step in becoming a successful learner is understanding what sort of learner you are. Once you know your learning style, you can find ways to hack your learning process to learn more effectively.
