Topic 3 Learning Types
In the recent years, the topic of “Learning Styles” has been discussed very thoroughly. Whether such styles really exist or not, it is a proven fact that each person prefers different types of learning and their preference, interests and habits make some learning and studying methods most effective for them. This can also be used for learning about digital tools. Some people may understand the digital tools better when they are directly using them, some might need help from others and some people might prefer to read the full instructions first. It is important to know how to learn effectively and in a constructive way to get to know new digital tools and apply them correctly in the workplace to guarantee the best possible communication.
Auditory
Auditory learners are especially prone to learning when hearing or listening to something. Just reading a text might not be recommendable to them but voicing it out loud can help them learn and remember.
Read/Write
Learners of the Read/Write type tend to learn by actively reading or writing the learning content themselves. It is recommended for them to take notes, write summary cards, or take their tame to read something.
Visual
Visual learners are best at learning when they can connect it to an image, graph or video. They can also learn by watching instruction videos.
Kinesthetic
Kinesthetic learners learn best when directly applying the instructions and doing the tasks themselves. They learn best by exploration and discovery.
Discover Your Learning Style
A short informative video on different learning styles and what kind of learning/studying might be best suited for someone.
8 Types of Learning Styles to Know As a Presenter
An overview of the different learning styles and short practical examples in how to address different styles.
My Learning Style
This is a self-reflection exercise for the participants. They are asked to think about their own learning style. What is the best learning style for them personally?
This can stem from times in formal education, as well as include experiences from informal education, the workplace or other daily situations.
- How do I learn best?
- What kind of learning activities do I prefer to learn with?
- What kind of learning styles are not useful for my own learning style?
The trainer should highlight how teachers and trainers are often inclined to create learning activities they have experienced most often or learning styles they are most comfortable with themselves, even if their learners might prefer other types of activities.Therefore it is important to address different learning styles and design various activities to engage all participants in the learning activities.
My Learners
Materials: Paper, pens
This is a reflection exercise for the participants. They are asked to write down their own answers for the following questions:
- When teaching someone, have I adapted my teaching style to the learner?
- Have I set clear learning objectives?
- What kind of learning styles have I supported during my teaching and how?
Afterwards, the participants exchange their answers with each other.
This exercise enables the participants to exchange opinions and experiences. The trainer should emphasize how the group feedback should be solution-oriented and non-judgmental.
Matching Learning Styles
The participants are put in groups of 2-5 people and think about how each learning type would best learn about a new communication tool and get to know how it works, what can be done with it, how to benefit most from it and how to avoid obstacles and problems.
Example: A visual learner would learn about new communication tools best by seeing someone else using it. A read/write learner would learn best by reading the instruction manual and writing down notes about the new digital tool.
This topic was an introduction to the different learning styles and procedures for every individual and how such learning styles take form in someone’s daily and professional life.
Addressing learning styles directly can improve the progress and motivation of learners.