What is Your Learning Style?

Numerous researchers have tackled the problem of how to measure learning styles, and many of their questionnaires are available on the web. Two free online tests calculate your scores immediately and provide descriptions of various learning styles:

Solomon and Felder's Index of Learning Styles is a 44-item questionnaire which can be completed online. Learning style results are returned immediately in four categories: active/reflective, sensing/intuitive, visual/verbal and sequential/global. After completing the test, read the article, "Learning Styles and Strategies" to learn about your style and how you can make the most of it.

To find out whether your learning style is Visual/ Verbal, Visual/ Nonverbal, Tactile/ Kinesthetic or Auditory/ Verbal, try Catherine Jester's online assessment tool, "A Learning Style Survey for College". Your test results are returned along with descriptions of each learning style and strategies for each type.

To assess yourself further, see "Learning Style and Self-Assessment Tests.

So what do you do once you have measured your learning style, and the styles of your students? Should you tailor your teaching to students' strengths? Or should students expand their learning styles and become more flexible learners?

Tips for Teachers

As a teacher, you should be aware that your students have a range of learning styles. Appeal to this diversity by using a variety of presentation, activity and assignment formats. Some possibilities include:

* enhance lectures and presentations with visual aids
* have students research and present material, in small groups or in plenary
* introduce content through discussion or problem-solving activities
* invite students to explore issues through roleplay
* assign practical hands-on activities, where possible
* take students on field trips to experience things first-hand.

Use your imagination! Lively and varied classes engage students and foster learning.

Tips for Learners

As a learner, an understanding of your learning style can help in the classroom and at home.

In the classroom:
If you have difficulty following a teacher's presentation of new material, ask if it can be presented in a way that appeals to your style. For example, if you are a visual learner, you may find it difficult to absorb content if the teacher just speaks. Approach your teacher and ask him/her to write key points on the board while they are talking.

At home:
When working independently to study for tests or complete assignments, you will find that you use your time more effectively if you use the strategies recommended for your style. For example, if you are an auditory learner, try recording summaries of notes you have taken from readings. To study, just sit back and listen...

Good luck!