Succeeding in University: What’s Your Learning Style?

In the world of education, there are various systems that describe the different ways people learn.

These systems help individuals identify their preferred learning styles, such as being an extrovert or introvert, a thinker or feeler, or having multiple intelligences according to Howard Gardner.

Another popular approach is the VARK model, which categorizes learners based on their sensory preferences.

Recognizing your learning style can be beneficial, but it doesn’t provide an instant solution for excelling in college.

This blog post explores key learning styles and offers practical tips for adapting your strengths to succeed in your college courses.

Reading Skills:

Reading is a crucial aspect of college education, and most classes involve reading assignments.

If you have a verbal and independent learning style, reading might come naturally to you. Here are some tips to enhance your learning:

1. Underline and highlight key ideas while reading.
2. Take comprehensive notes using your own words.
3. Summarize information presented in nonverbal forms, such as charts or graphs.
4. Complete all optional and supplemental readings.
5. Take thorough notes during class to reinforce your understanding.
6. Collaborate with kinesthetic learners for nonreading-based learning activities.

If your learning style differs from verbal and independent, you may need to dedicate extra attention to developing your reading skills.

Allocate sufficient time for reading assignments, choose your most alert hours for reading, and find a quiet and comfortable place to focus.

Listening Skills:

Listening skills are as important as reading skills in college. Students are expected to listen attentively to instructors and participate actively in discussions.

If you are inclined towards aural learning, you might excel at comprehending lectures. Consider these tips to optimize your listening skills:

1. Sit in a location where you can hear the instructor clearly, away from distractions.
2. Engage in study groups and listen to your peers’ perspectives on course material.
3. Record lectures and review them later to reinforce your understanding.
4. Read your notes aloud while studying and practice answering questions aloud.
5. Communicate with your instructor if you need clarification on course readings.
6. Utilize rhymes or acronyms to aid in remembering verbal information.
7. Explore supplementary learning aids like audio and video podcasts.

Visual Learning:

Visual learners grasp information more effectively through visual aids and demonstrations. Although you may have a visual learning preference, it is essential to develop reading and listening skills as well.

Here are some tips for visual learners:

1. Pay close attention to visual presentations, charts, diagrams, and images during class.
2. Use a visual approach when taking lecture and reading notes, incorporating colors, lists, and sketches.
3. Utilize video podcasts or other visual resources for reviewing lectures.
4. Focus on illustrations and diagrams in textbooks to enhance comprehension.
5. Create visual representations of the material you’re learning, imagining how you would present it visually to others.

Kinesthetic Learning:

Kinesthetic learners thrive in hands-on, physical activities. However, they also need to cultivate other learning skills to excel in college. Consider the following tips to maximize your learning:

1. Engage your senses by imagining how things would feel, smell, or be physically manipulated.
2. Imagine teaching the topic you’re learning and create visual aids accordingly.
3. Move around while studying, make gestures, and read aloud to maintain concentration.
4. Develop study aids beyond note-taking, such as charts, posters, or flashcards.
5. Associate abstract ideas with concrete examples and repeat key information in writing.

Feeling-Oriented Learning: Feeling learners connect with information through personal connections and emotional engagement.

These learners may find some subjects dry or boring if presented solely through written content. Here are some tips for feeling-oriented learners:

1. Establish an emotional connection with the topic by imagining yourself in relevant situations.
2. Share your enthusiasm and feelings about the subject with your instructor during office hours.
3. Supplement your learning by exploring the personal experiences of individuals related to the subject.
4. Engage in personal conversations with peers about the material’s significance and teach others using your emotional perspective.
5. Combine strategies from the “doing” learning style with feeling-oriented approaches.

Your Style, Your Instructor’s Style:

It’s important to note that many college classes tend to focus on specific learning styles. Large lecture classes often emphasize listening and reading skills.

If these aren’t your strengths, don’t worry. T

his blog post aims to provide study skills and strategies that cater to these activities, helping you succeed in college.

Conclusion

Understanding your learning style can enhance your college experience, but it’s crucial to adapt to different learning methods.

By incorporating strategies aligned with your preferences and building skills in other areas, you can effectively navigate the reading, listening, visual, kinesthetic, and feeling aspects of college learning.

Remember, the goal is to develop a well-rounded approach to education that encompasses various learning styles and maximizes your academic success.