Do you have a friend that only needs to look at the material to get an A on the exam? Or a friend that learns with loud music on? How about a colleague that spends only minutes preparing for meetings and yet has no problem carrying the conversation? This can be really frustrating, but it has a simple explanation: What makes these people so efficient in learning new things is their awareness of which learning style is best for them.
Experts have identified seven different learning styles. If you manage to find the right one for you, the processes of preparation and studying will become much easier.
Source: Online Bachelor Degrees
7 Types of Learners
1. Aural Learners
Musical or aural learners use music, sound, and rhyme for visualization and association. If they practice this technique often, musical learners can call to mind everything they learned without actually hearing the sound; they simply need to think about it!
2. Physical Learners
Kinesthetic or physical learners rely on movement and touch. For instance, most engineers enjoy taking stuff apart and/or putting it back together. It’s a simple kinesthetic technique that helps them figure out how things work. Many kinesthetic learners also use flashcards. Even though flashcards are essentially visual aids, moving and touching them is kinesthetic. You can also check online flashcards at https://subjecto.com/flashcards/ to learn and memorize information.
3. Logical Learners
Are you always trying to comprehend the reason behind things? Then you’re probably a logical learner. Logical learners like to use statistics and lists while learning. Illogical associations also work for them. Even though this sounds unbelievable, illogicality helps logical learners recall the information. On the flip side, logical learners tend to overanalyze things, which can result in a mental block.
4. Visual Learners
People who process information that they can see are visual learners. They often use colors, diagrams, mind maps, spatial organization, and layouts when learning. Visual learners also find it helpful to highlight key phrases and terms to help them remember that information.
5. Verbal Learners
Similar to aural learners, verbal learners can take advantage of techniques based on words, such as rhythm and rhyme. Acronym mnemonics and scripting can also be helpful. Verbal learners often use techniques related to writing and speaking. They also tend to read the information aloud in order to remember it.
6. Social Learners
Interpersonal or social learners are most productive when working in groups, such as study groups at school or workshops and meetings at work. They also find it helpful when peers review their ideas and work.
7. Solitary Learners
Intrapersonal or solitary learners prefer learning in quiet places. They always study on their own in order to be able to define their plans and goals. They like defining clear objectives and figuring out why the material should be important to them. Solitary learners should keep a journal or log in order to try and connect with the material on a personal level or outline their ideas.
Final Thoughts
Knowing which learning style suits you best will make your learning more efficient. Even if you’re out of school, using the right learning style can help you apply the knowledge you have in your day-to-day life or career and make you more productive.