Learning styles refers to the fact that individuals process and perceive information in different ways. People can assess their own interests and lifestyle to determine the ways in which they obtain much of their information about their environment. One's learning style may affect how well they perform in educational settings. There are seven perceptual styles: print, aural, visual, interactive, haptic, kinesthetic ,and olfactory. Below is an overview of the characteristics a person may possess for each style:
Print learning refers to seeing printed or written words. These learners often take notes, remember easily things that are read, learn better after seeing or writing something, and grasp important concepts on a first reading of material.
Aural learning refers to listening. These learners do well with lectures, are usually excellent listeners, can learn concepts by listening to tapes, can reproduce symbols, letters or words by hearing them, and can repeat or fulfill verbal instructions relatively easily.
Interactive learning refers to verbalization. These learners prefer to discuss things with others, enjoy question and answer sessions, like to use other people as a sounding board, and find small group discussions stimulating.
Visual learning refers to seeing visual depictions. These learners function well by seeing and by watching demonstrations, often have a vivid imagination, need something to watch, and like visual stimuli such as pictures, slides and graphs.
Haptic learning refers to the sense of touch or grasp. These learners like a "hands on" approach to learning, like to do artwork or doodle on notebooks, and succeed with tasks requiring manipulation.
Kinesthetic learning refers to whole body movement. These learners work best with direct involvement in things. They often fidget or find a reason to move, often find success in physical response activities, use movement to help concentrate, are usually poor listeners, and are not particularly attentive to visual or auditory presentations.
Olfactory learning refers to sense of smell and taste. These learners find that smells add to learning, are frequently able to identify smells, and can associate a particular smell with specific past memories.
Here are some interesting websites about learning styles. Some have tests to figure out what your own style is, based on different theories of learning styles.
National Reading Styles Institute is a research based educational organization dedicated to improving literacy. It employs consultants throughout the U. S., who work closely with state education departments, regional service centers, universities, and many national organizations to improve literacy.
Learning Styles & Solutions, Inc. offers services such as academic testing, psycho-educational evaluations, language training, and general academic support.
The Learner's Dimension provides educators with publications on teaching, learning, and assessment.
Institute for Learning Styles Research offers more information about the seven perceptual learning styles theory.
Oak Tree Centre provices links to a wide variety of resources about learning styles.
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