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Learning styles are crucial in education, and understanding them can come with great benefits. Various types of learning styles exist. One widely referenced student learning model is educational theorist Neil Fleming’s VARK model.
The VARK acronym refers to four types of learning styles: visual, auditory, reading/writing preference, and kinesthetic. The VARK model recognizes the diverse ways in which students absorb and process information, commonly referred to as “preferred learning modes.” For example, when learning how to build a clock, some students understand the process by following verbal instructions, while others have to physically manipulate the clock. Learning styles also take into account various methods of understanding and retaining information.
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Teaching professionals often rely on the categories of the VARK model to help tailor their teaching strategies, ensuring a personalized and effective learning experience for students. Some instructors may exclude reading/writing as a category of preferential learning, and build their curriculum around the remaining learning styles: visual, auditory, and kinesthetic (VAK).
The main ideas of VARK (PDF, 123 KB) are as follows:
Sometimes, teachers may find that a combination of all the sensory modalities may be the best option for their classroom. However, allowing students to access information in terms they are comfortable with can increase their academic confidence.
Visual
Visual learners prefer the use of images, maps, and graphic organizers to access and understand new information.
Auditory
Auditory learners best understand new content through listening and speaking, especially in situations like lectures and group discussions. Aural learners may use repetition as a study technique and benefit from the use of mnemonic devices.
Read and write
Students with a strong reading/writing preference learn best through words. These students may present themselves as copious note takers or avid readers, and are able to translate abstract concepts into words and essays.
Kinesthetic
Students who are kinesthetic learners best understand information through tactile representations of information. These students are hands-on learners and learn best when figuring things out by hand.
The notion of individualized learning styles has gained widespread recognition in education theory and classroom management strategy. Individual learning styles depend on cognitive, emotional, and environmental factors, as well as one’s prior experience. In other words: everyone’s different. It is important for educators to understand the differences in their students’ learning styles, so that they can implement best practice strategies into their daily activities, curriculum, and assessments. Many degree programs, specifically higher level ones like a doctorate of education, integrate different learning styles and educational obstacles directly into the curriculum.
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Referred to as SWOT (“study without tears”), Fleming provides advice on how students can use their learning modalities and skills to their advantage when studying for an upcoming test or assignment.
How do you learn best? Complete Fleming’s VARK Questionnaire to find out what kind of learner you are.
READ MORE: Teaching Methods
Last updated January 2024
