
Exploring personal learning style
Learning styles have huge impact in studying than one may realize. Not only the preferred style guides you to the way of better learning but also changes the way you internally represent experiences, the way you remember information, detail or even the words you choose.
For getting better in studies, a student must know what his learning style is. Some learn best through logical thinking, and some have a habit of learning verbally. Given below are few learning styles students usually adapt.
Few Learning Styles are:
1. Visual (spatial): They prefer using pictures, images, and spatial understanding.
Description:
- Learn by observation
- Can recall what they have seen
- Can follow written or drawn instructions
- Like to read
- Use written notes
- Benefit by visualizing, watching TV/video/films
Learn Best Through the Use of:
- Charts, graphs, diagrams, and flow charts
- Sight words
- Flashcards
- Visual similarities and differences
- Pictures and graphics
- Maps
- Silent reading
- Written instructions
- Computer assisted learning
2. Aural (auditory-musical): they prefer using sound and music.
Description
- Prefer listening and taking notes
- Listen for patterns
- Consult peers to ascertain that they have the correct details
- Can recall what they have heard
- Can follow oral directions
- Repeat words aloud for memorization
- Use oral language effectively
Learn Best Through the Use of:
- Discussion, dialog, debate
- Memorization
- Phonics
- Oral reading
- Hearing anecdotes or stories
- Listening to tapes or CDs
- Cooperative learning groups
3. Physical (kinesthetic): they prefer using your body, hands and sense of touch.
Description:
- Are often physically adept
- Learn through experience and physical activity
- Benefit from demonstration
- Learn from teaching others what they know
Learn Best Through the Use of:
- Playing games
- Role playing /mime
- Read body language/gestures
- Drama
- Learn or memorize while moving (pacing, stationary bike, finger or whole body games)
4. Verbal/Linguistic:
Description:
- Imagines events/interactions by thinking of words, phrases, dialogue.
- Thinks and innovates linguistically most of the time.
- can hear words, phrases and sentences as they are being read silently
- plays with sounds/words to make jokes, puns, humor
- enjoys reading/writing to relax
- writes notes as memory aid
- writes to communicate ideas
Learn Best Through the Use of:
- Literary interpretation/analysis
- Story telling
- Vocabulary activities
- Word roots and parts/development of language
- Speeches/lectures/presentations /Journal/diary keeping
- Verbal debate/ Impromptu speaking/ class discussion