Learning styles

All students are created equally (and differently)

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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.

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:

• Students’ preferred learning modes have a significant influence on their behavior and learning.
• Students’ preferred learning modes should be matched with appropriate learning strategies.
• Information that is accessed through students’ use of their modality preferences shows an increase in their levels of comprehension, motivation, and metacognition.

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.

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.

SWOT strategies

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.

Visual SWOT strategies

• Utilize graphic organizers such as charts, graphs, and diagrams.
• Recreate your notes from memory.
• Replace important words with symbols or initials.
• Highlight key terms in corresponding colors.

Aural SWOT strategies

• Record your summarized notes and listen to them.
• Have a discussion with others to expand upon your understanding of a topic.
• Reread your notes or assignment out loud.
• Explain your notes to your peers or fellow aural learners.

Read/write SWOT strategies

• Write and rewrite your notes.
• Reword main ideas and principles to gain a deeper understanding.
• Organize diagrams, charts, and graphic organizers into statements.

Kinesthetic SWOT strategies

• Use real-life examples, applications, and case studies in your summary to help with abstract concepts.
• Redo lab experiments or projects.
• Utilize pictures and photographs that illustrate your idea.

How do you learn best? Complete Fleming’s VARK Questionnaire to find out what kind of learner you are.

READ MORE: Teaching Methods