Ever feel like you're just not getting something, no matter how hard you try? It might be because you're not using the study methods that work best for you.
Everyone has their own way of learning, and figuring out your learning style can make a big difference in how well you do in your courses.
In this blog, we’ll break down the different learning styles, explore what learning style theory is all about, and see how knowing your style can help you smash your studies.
Different learning styles explained
Learning styles are basically the different ways people prefer to take in, process and remember information. While there are many theories out there, one of the most popular ones splits learning styles into four main types:
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Visual learners: If you’re a visual learner, you probably love diagrams, charts, and written directions. You think in pictures and remember what you see.
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Auditory learners: If you learn best by listening, you’re an auditory learner. Lectures, discussions, and audio recordings are your jam. Talking things out and joining group discussions can really help you understand the material.
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Kinesthetic learners: Also known as tactile learners, kinesthetic learners need to get hands-on. You learn best by doing, whether it’s through experiments, activities, or real-life examples.
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Reading/writing learners: If you prefer reading and writing, then this is your style. You like to read textbooks, take detailed notes and dive deep into written material.
Figuring out your learning style
So, you’re probably wondering, ‘What learning style am I?’
The best way to figure out your learning style is to start reflecting on how you usually like to learn new things. Look back at past study sessions and see what’s worked for you.
Do you struggle to pay attention during a lecture? Maybe you prefer to watch a YouTube lesson with animation. Start to take note of how you best retain information.
There are also lots of online quizzes that can help you pinpoint your learning style. Simply Google ‘What’s my learning style’ and see what comes up. ✍️
Why does learning style theory matter?
Learning style theory is all about the idea that everyone has a unique way of learning.
Learning isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach.
By knowing your style, you can make studying easier and more effective. When you use study techniques that match your style, you can understand and remember information better. 🧠
How knowing your learning style can help you succeed
So you know your learning style, now what?
Once you’ve figured out your learning style, you can switch up how you study, so you better process and retain information and, therefore, hopefully succeed in your degree!
Here’s how knowing your learning style can help you succeed:
Tailor your study techniques
Once you know your learning style, you can use study methods that work best for you.
For example, visual learners might make mind maps and use colour-coded notes, while auditory learners could listen to recorded lectures and join study groups.
Increased motivation
Knowing your learning style can help increase your motivation.
Studying in a way that suits your style can make learning more fun and less frustrating. So, when it feels easier and more engaging, you’ll likely be more motivated to hit the books.
Better retention
Using strategies that fit your style helps you remember stuff more effectively.
For example, kinesthetic learners might recall concepts better through hands-on activities, while reading/writing learners might benefit from detailed note-taking.
More effective time management
Knowing your learning style helps you study smarter, not harder.
You can focus on the methods that work for you and save time by not wasting it on techniques that don’t. ⌛
Adaptability
While it’s great to know your main learning style, being aware of the different types of learning can help you adapt to various situations.
Mixing in elements from other styles can give you a well-rounded approach to learning.
Why knowing your learning style isn’t the be-all-end-all
Let’s say you’re trying to read a chapter for your next lecture and you just can’t focus on the page. You’ve found out you’re a visual learner – so you say to yourself, ‘I’m a visual learner, I can’t learn this way!’.
You give up.
This is where learning styles can become problematic. In fact, according to the APA, following a learning style too rigidly may actually have detrimental effects.
Psychologists believe that categorising yourself into one learning style can make you feel too constricted – and if a learning style isn’t working, feel like there’s something wrong with you. Thus having a negative impact on your learning.
It’s important to think of learning styles as more of a preference rather than a hard and fast rule. Just because something’s hard at first, it doesn’t mean it’s not possible.
Why you should explore different types of learning styles
So, even though you’ve got a preferred learning style, it’s still a good idea to try out different ways of learning. Try integrating a combination of methods from various styles to help you get a deeper understanding of the material.
For example, you might start with a visual overview, then listen to a lecture and lastly do a hands-on project to nail down the concept.
Can you apply learning styles to financial learning? 💰
Yes! Learning about money and learning for uni or college can work in similar ways. Just as you might be a visual or kinesthetic learner, so too can you build your money skills through your preferred learning style.
At Blackbullion, our learning pathways on our website offer both video, written and oral content to help you best grasp the topics. We also include quizzes at the end of each lesson to help you retain what you’ve learned. 🤓
Figuring out what your learning style is and using it to your advantage can make a big difference in your academic and learning success. When you match your study habits with your preferred learning methods, you’ll likely find studying more enjoyable and effective.
But remember, if something isn’t working, try something else. Don’t be afraid to mix things up and see what works best for you!
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