Learning Styles

Kinesthetic? Auditory? Visual? Combination? Different styles for different subjects? Say what?

If you don't know your learning style, don't worry! It's easy to identify your learning style and study and learning strategies for your specific style. Some students even have different styles for different subjects.

To determine your learning style, you need to take a simple test and most of you have already done that in Major Clarity. Once you know your learning style, check out some of the study and learning strategies below.

Visual Learners

Characteristics of Visual Learners

  • Remember information best when they "see" it (may prefer sitting near the front of the room)

  • Likes to see visual representations of material in the form of illustrations or graphs and charts

Strategies for Visual Learners

  • Use handouts, charts, graphs, and illustrations to explain material

  • Keep your notes neat and organized - clutter and disorganization makes it difficult to find and remember important information

  • Flashcards and outlines may help you remember information

  • Be aware! You may not be able to concentrate if there is too much background noise - consider using headphones (without music) to muffle background noise if a quiet space is unavailable

auditory learners

Characteristics of Auditory Learners

  • Prefer listening to material being explained

  • Excellent memory of what was said

Strategies for Auditory Learners

  • Read text, notes, and class materials out loud

  • Identify a study partner who is also an auditory learner and quiz each other

  • Be aware: You may benefit from closing your eyes while you are repeating what was discussed in class; this helps you block out distracting visual stimulation!

kinesthetic learners

Characteristics of Kinesthetic Learners

  • High levels of energy

  • Learns (and remembers) better when physical movement is involved

  • Generally prefer "hands-on" activities and classes

Strategies for Kinesthetic Learners

  • Stand up or move! This isn't always possible, so consider some of these strategies:

  • "Use a pencil. Use a pen. Use a highlighter." Underline, highlight, and color-code as you are taking notes. Use post-it notes. Draw arrows to join important concepts. Not only are these excellent reading strategies, the physical action involved will help you remember!

  • Be aware: You may not be able to concentrate if you are required to sit still for long periods of time. If so, consider engaging in small, quiet movements such as twisting a rubber band around your wrist or gently tapping your pencil against your palm. Consider a spinner ring or squeeze ball for your non-dominant hand.