Your+Learning+Style

= What's Your Learning Style and Why Does it Matter? =

A learning style refers to how you learn best, there are basically three learning styles and most people are strong in at least one. Knowing what your learning style is allows you to adjust how you study and learn and can make the whole education process much easier.

Different theories describe the styles in various ways. Essentially there are three learning styles and most people fit into one or more. What is important is to understand your learning strengths and weaknesses and adapt your study approach to best meet your needs.


 * Visual Learners- learn through seeing**
 * "These learners need to see the teacher's body language and facial expression to fully understand the content of a lesson. They tend to prefer sitting at the front of the classroom to avoid visual obstructions (e.g. people's heads). They may think in pictures and learn best from visual displays including: diagrams, illustrated text books, overhead transparencies, videos, flipcharts and hand-outs. During a lecture or classroom discussion, visual learners often prefer to take detailed notes to absorb the information."

**Auditory Learners**- **learn through hearing**

 * "They learn best through verbal lectures, discussions, talking things through and listening to what others have to say. Auditory learners interpret the underlying meanings of speech through listening to tone of voice, pitch, speed and other nuances. Written information may have little meaning until it is heard. These learners often benefit from reading text aloud and using a tape recorder."


 * Tactile/ Kinesthetic Learners**- **learn by moving, doing, touching**
 * "Tactile/Kinesthetic persons learn best through a hands-on approach, actively exploring the physical world around them. They may find it hard to sit still for long periods and may become distracted by their need for activity and exploration."

LdPride. n.d. //Learning styles explained.// http://www.ldpride.net/learningstyles.MI.htm#Learning%20Styles%20Explain


 * What do you do once you know how you learn?**
 * If you are a **visual learner** online learning is great for you, everything comes across your screen. However if you are challenged understanding a process or concept simply by reading about it, find an online demonstration/video to help you. Search google, youtube etc. for resources


 * If you are an **auditory learner** try reading challenging material out loud to yourself. if you are taking a face-to-face course sometimes it's helpful to record your instructor's lectures. Just ask first.


 * If you are a **tactile/kinesthetic** learner, get up and move around. Learning about a process? Get up and act it out. Take periodic breaks while studying. Get up and move around, it will help your concentration.


 * Want to learn more about learning styles and maybe take a test to see how you learn?** Take a look at these resources:
 * @http://www.ldpride.net/learningstyles.MI.htm
 * @http://www.chaminade.org/inspire/learnstl.htm