What Are Learning Styles?

As GCSE,  A Level and IB exams approach, it's crucial for students to understand the best strategies for effective revision. Every student is unique, and knowing your personal learning style can make all the difference in how you absorb and retain information. In this article, we will explore two popular learning style models: the VARK model and Honey and Mumford's Learning Styles. By understanding your preferences and strengths, you can tailor your revision process and achieve better results.

What Are Learning Styles?

Learning styles are the different ways in which individuals approach and process information. Everyone has their unique learning style, which determines how they learn best. Understanding your learning style can significantly improve your ability to remember, comprehend and apply information effectively.

The VARK Learning Styles - What Are Different Types Of Learning Styles?

The VARK model, developed by Neil Fleming, categorises learners into four distinct types based on their preferred sensory input. So what are the types of learning styles according to the VARK model?

• Visual Learners
• Auditory Learners
• Kinesthetic Learners
• Reading/Writing Learners

Let's delve into different types of learning styles according to the VARK model and how each style can benefit your revision process.

Visual Learners

Visual learners process information best through images and visuals. They learn by seeing information, such as diagrams, pictures, charts, and graphs. They prefer to visualise concepts and 

If you are a visual learner, then you may benefit from using mind maps, diagrams, and flow charts to help you organise and understand information. Highlighting important points in different colours or creating flashcards with images can also be helpful. Using visual aids such as videos, animations, and pictures can also aid in comprehension.

Auditory Learners

Auditory learners learn best through hearing and listening. They enjoy lectures, discussions, and podcasts. They can remember information that has been presented verbally, such as speeches, lectures, and conversations.

If you are an auditory learner, recording yourself speaking about a topic, and then listening to it repeatedly can help reinforce information. Joining study groups and engaging in discussions can also be beneficial. Creating mnemonics or rhythmical phrases can also help you to remember information more easily.

Kinesthetic Learners

Kinesthetic learners learn best through physical activities and movement. They prefer hands-on activities that involve touching, moving, and manipulating objects. They learn by doing rather than hearing or seeing information.

If you are a kinesthetic learner, you may benefit from interactive revision techniques such as creating models, experiments, or simulations. Taking notes and re-writing information can also be useful as the physical act of writing can help you to remember. Incorporating movement while revising, such as walking or pacing, can also help you to focus and remember information.

Reading/Writing Learners

Reading/writing learners learn best through written text. They enjoy reading books, articles, and notes. They process information best by writing and taking notes, creating lists and outlines.

If you are a reading/writing learner, then taking extensive notes, creating summaries and outlines can be beneficial. Re-writing information and making flashcards can also help you to remember. Using a variety of colours, highlighters, and underlining important points can aid in the memorisation process.

Honey and Mumford Learning Styles

Peter Honey and Alan Mumford developed another learning styles model that focuses on how individuals approach the learning process. Their model identifies four types of learners:

• Activists
• Reflectors
• Theorists
• Pragmatists

Understanding your Honey and Mumford learning style can help you optimise your revision techniques.

Activist

Activists learn best through hands-on activities and prefer to learn by doing rather than watching or listening. They thrive in group discussions and enjoy challenging and varied tasks.

If you are an activist learner, then you may benefit from interactive revision techniques such as creating models, experiments, or simulations. Group discussions and debates can also be useful. Changing your revision environment or pace can also help to keep you engaged and motivated.

Reflector

Reflectors learn best by observing, thinking and reflecting. They prefer to take time to process information and make connections between different ideas. They enjoy observing and analysing situations before taking action.

If you are a reflector learner, then taking time to process and reflect on information can be helpful. Creating study guides and summaries can also be useful. Engaging in reflective activities such as journaling and meditation can help to deepen understanding and improve memory retention.

Theorist

Theorists learn best by understanding the underlying principles and concepts. They enjoy abstract thinking, analysis and reasoning. They prefer to have a clear framework and structure to work within.

If you are a theorist learner, then creating conceptual diagrams and frameworks can be helpful. Analysing and breaking down complex information into smaller components can also aid in understanding. Summarising key concepts and theories can help to reinforce understanding and retention.

Pragmatist

Pragmatists learn best through experimentation and practical application. They prefer to learn by doing and are motivated by how information can be applied in real-world scenarios.

If you are a pragmatist learner, then applying information in practical situations can be helpful. Creating case studies and real-world scenarios to apply concepts and theories can also aid in understanding. Engaging in group discussions and problem-solving activities can also help to reinforce understanding and retention.

The Benefits of Knowing Your Learning Style

By understanding your learning style, you can tailor your revision process to your strengths and preferences, increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of your study sessions. Here are some key benefits of knowing your learning style:

Improved Focus and Concentration

When you use revision techniques that align with your learning style, you're more likely to remain engaged and focused on the task at hand. This heightened focus can lead to increased retention of information and better overall understanding.

Greater Enjoyment and Motivation

Learning can be more enjoyable and motivating when you approach it in a way that suits your preferences. When you're enjoying the process, you're more likely to stick to your revision schedule and put in the necessary effort to succeed.

Enhanced Learning Retention

By leveraging your strengths and preferences, you can improve your ability to retain information. This means that when exam time comes, you'll be better prepared and more likely to recall the essential information you need to succeed.

Personalised Revision Strategies

Understanding your learning style allows you to create a personalised revision plan that caters to your needs. This tailored approach can help you maximise your study time and achieve better results on your exams.

How To Identify Your Learning Style?

Identifying your learning style involves a combination of self-reflection, experimentation, and sometimes, taking a learning style assessment. Here are some steps to help you determine your preferred learning style:

Reflect on past experiences

Think about the ways you've learned best in the past. Consider which study methods have been most effective for you and which ones didn't work well. Reflect on the types of activities, materials, or environments that helped you feel engaged and focused while learning.

Experiment with different methods

Try various learning techniques that align with each of the learning styles (VARK or Honey and Mumford). Pay attention to how well you understand, remember, and engage with the material using each method. Note which methods feel most natural and enjoyable for you.

Take a learning style assessment

There are several online assessments available that can help you identify your learning style, such as the VARK questionnaire (http://vark-learn.com/the-vark-questionnaire) or the Honey and Mumford Learning Style Questionnaire. These assessments ask a series of questions about your preferences and habits, providing you with a learning style profile based on your responses.

Seek feedback from others

Ask teachers, classmates, or family members for their observations on how you learn best. They might have insights into your learning style based on their experiences working or studying with you.

Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses

Identify the areas where you excel and those where you may need improvement. Knowing your strengths can help you leverage them in your learning process, while understanding your weaknesses can help you develop strategies to overcome them.

Remember that learning styles can be flexible

Your learning style may not fit neatly into one category, and that's okay. You might have a dominant learning style but still find value in using techniques from other styles. Furthermore, your preferences might change depending on the subject or context. It's essential to remain adaptable and open to new learning experiences.

By following these steps, you can gain a deeper understanding of your learning preferences and utilise this knowledge to improve your study habits, boost retention, and achieve better results in your academic pursuits.

As you prepare for your GCSE, A Level and IB exams, remember that understanding your learning style can make a significant difference in your revision process. By recognising your preferences and strengths, you can adapt your study techniques to suit your unique learning style, leading to a more effective and enjoyable revision experience. Explore the VARK and Honey and Mumford models to identify your preferred learning style, and use this knowledge to unlock your full potential as you strive for exam success.

VARK Learning Styles Quiz

Here's a short quiz designed to help students discover their learning style based on the VARK model. For each question, choose the option that resonates most with you. At the end of the quiz, you can tally your scores to determine their dominant learning style.

When learning a new topic, I prefer to:

• a) Read about it in a textbook or use revision notes
• b) Listen to a podcast or lecture about it
• c) Watch a video or look at diagrams and illustrations
• d) Try out a hands-on activity or experiment

When trying to remember important information, I tend to:

• a) Write it down or create flashcards
• b) Repeat it aloud or discuss it with someone
• c) Visualise it or create a mental image
• d) Associate it with a physical action or sensation

When studying with a group, I find it most helpful to:

• a) Read and summarise the material for the group
• b) Engage in discussions and debates
• c) Create visual aids like mind maps or flowcharts
• d) Work through problems or scenarios together

When preparing for an exam, I usually:

• a) Write notes, summaries, or outlines
• b) Record myself explaining the material and listen to it later
• c) Use coloured pens or highlighters to organise my notes visually
• d) Practice with hands-on activities or role-playing exercises

When faced with a complex problem, I tend to:

• a) Break it down into smaller, written steps
• b) Talk it through with someone or listen to their suggestions
• c) Draw a diagram or flowchart to represent the problem visually
• d) Manipulate physical objects or use real-life examples to understand it

Tally the scores:

• For each question, give 1 point to the letter that corresponds to the answer.
• Add up the points for each letter (a, b, c, d).

Results:

• If 'a' has the highest score, you have  a Read/Write learning preference.
• If 'b' has the highest score, you have  an Aural/Auditory learning preference.
• If 'c' has the highest score, you have  a Visual learning preference.
• If 'd' has the highest score, you have  a Kinesthetic learning preference.

Keep in mind that this quiz is a simplified tool to give students an initial idea of their learning preferences. Many people may find they have a mix of learning styles or that their preferences vary depending on the subject or situation. Explore different learning techniques and remain adaptable to different learning situations.

Honey and Mumford's Learning Styles Quiz

For each statement, rate how much you agree with it on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being "strongly disagree" and 5 being "strongly agree". At the end of the quiz, you can tally your scores to determine your dominant learning style.

1. I enjoy trying new things and jumping into activities without much preparation.
2. I prefer to observe and think about a situation before taking any action.
3. I like to understand the theory and concepts behind what I'm learning.
4. I value practical knowledge and enjoy applying what I learn to real-life situations.
5. I learn best when I can experiment with different approaches to a problem.
6. I enjoy reflecting on my experiences and considering how they relate to what I already know.
7. I appreciate logical and systematic approaches to learning.
8. I like to see immediate results from my efforts and learn by doing.
9. Group discussions and debates are engaging and help me learn more effectively.
10. I tend to take time to review and evaluate new information before making decisions.
11. I often seek out models, theories, or frameworks to help organise my thoughts.
12. I am results-oriented and prefer to focus on practical applications of knowledge.

Tally the scores:

• Add up the scores for statements 1, 5, and 9 (Activist)
• Add up the scores for statements 2, 6, and 10 (Reflector)
• Add up the scores for statements 3, 7, and 11 (Theorist)
• Add up the scores for statements 4, 8, and 12 (Pragmatist)

Results:

• The highest-scoring category represents your dominant learning style according to Honey and Mumford's model.

Remember that this quiz is a simplified tool to give students an initial idea of their learning preferences. It's important to note that many individuals may have a mix of learning styles or that their preferences can change depending on the subject or situation. Explore different learning techniques and remain adaptable to various learning environments.