There are four types of learning methods (VARK): visual, auditory, read/write, and kinesthetic. In this article, we will discuss the different learning methods and which one may be the best for you.
What is Visual Learning?
Visual learners absorb information best when they can visualize ideas. Maps, charts, and diagrams work well for visual learners. When instructors illustrate or diagram their lectures on a whiteboard, visual learners may find they remember the information much better. In other words, being a visual learner includes thinking in pictures rather than in words. One of the benefits of being a visual learner is easily seeing the big picture. Study works best for these people if they: look at headings and pictures first and highlight important words in color.
Learning Methods for Visual Learners:
Photo Essay: A series of only pictures showing the subject you’re trying to learn.
Mindmaps: As one of the classic learning methods, mindmaps work especially well for visual learners. It’s easier for visual learners to connect the dots using mindmaps, especially with pictures attached to them.
Flowcharts: Flowcharts are really useful to show a series of events in consecutive order such as for history.
- Diagram: Drawing diagrams such as for biology can be really beneficial.
What is Auditory Learning?
Auditory learners use mainly the ears to learn. They tend to prefer listening to information rather than reading it or seeing it visually displayed. Auditory learners may like to read information out loud to process the lesson. They also prefer lectures over reading a textbook or listening to instructions instead of reading them.
Learning Methods for Auditory Learners:
- Audiobooks: Using audiobooks instead of reading a textbook allows auditory learners to soak in the information better.
- Online Lectures: Finding lectures online can be a great method for having information spoken to you.
- Background music: Listening to music while you study may help you memorize ideas.
What is Reading / Writing Learning?
Reading and writing learners are more comfortable with the written word. They prefer to intake information by reading texts and can further absorb information by condensing and rephrasing it. The usual reading of college textbooks and annotation process is effective for these people.
Learning Methods for Reading / Writing Learners:
- Taking notes: Writing the information down helps reading/writing learners.
- Reading textbooks: Just straight up reading the textbook is the best method for you to learn.
- Reading notes: Reading already taken notes or notes from the teachers are also very beneficial.
What is Kinesthetic Learning?
Kinesthetic learners are hands-on learners. They learn best by hands-on actions and may get fidgety if forced to sit for long periods of time. Kinesthetic learners do best when they can participate in activities that require hands-on work. Sometimes even being physically engaged will help them retain information better.
Learning Methods for Kinesthetic Learners:
- Labs: Hands-on experiments for classes such as chemistry, dissections for biology, or labs for physics are the best way to learn.
- Models: Making physical models for the topic will also help.
- Fidgeting: Doing movements such as tapping your fingers or feet helps connect the movement with the information you need to learn.
Which Method of Learning is the Best?
The method of learning best suited for you solely depends on the type of person you are. You can find out which type of learning is the best for you by experimenting with different learning methods. Instead of taking notes, try listening to lectures or audiobooks! You can also try using multiple study methods at the same time such as listening to an audiobook while reading the textbook. Everybody takes in information differently and finding the learning method for you is crucial for future success.
Links:
- https://teach.com/what/teachers-know/learning-styles/
- https://www.rasmussen.edu/student-experience/college-life/most-common-types-of-learners/
- https://www.time4learning.com/learning-styles/visual-spatial.html
- https://www.sproutlabs.com.au/blog/learning-activities-for-visual-learners/
- https://www.wgu.edu/blog/2020/08/auditory-learning-style.html#close
- https://www.houghton.edu/current-students/center-for-student-success/academic-support-and-accessibility-services/study-advisement/general-study-information/kinesthetic-learning-style/
- https://ccri.edu/success/pdf/sc_LearningStyles-FINAL.pdf
