Learning Styles
When it comes to learning styles everyone is quite different. Everyone has different capabilities, forms, and styles of learning. There have been many studies concluded to try to better understand what style helps a person better learn and retain information. Some of those styles of learning are discussed in the book written by Gardner, Jewler and Barefoot (2009). A few of the styles that are mentioned are Kolb Inventory, Myer-Briggs Indicator and the Multiple Intelligence Inventory.
According to the Kolb Inventory style of learning there are four qualities a person must obtain to be a successful learner. The four stages are Concrete Experience, Reflective Observation, Abstract Conceptualization, and Active Experimentation. Once the four stages are developed a person falls into one of four groups of learning which are Divergers, Assimilators, Convergers, and Accommodators. Out of the four groups I would better identify myself under the Accommodator learning style. Accommodator is defined as a person who better learns by hands-on techniques. Sometimes I find that even after I finish reading the material on how to do something I do not completely grasp the concept of it until I physically go out and do it.
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator describes a persons’ learning abilities by their personality type. Under the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator I am described as a ISFJ learning type, which stands for Introverts Sensing Feeling and Judging. Many times before I make a final decision whether its work related or personal I analyze the different options and consequences before I make a final decision. I want to know facts and analyze before I make any approach. I like to organize duties and plan things out on a daily bases so I can ensure that tasks are done when needed.
Another learning style is the VARK Inventory, which describes a persons’ ability to learn by their senses. There are four categories under the VARK learning style which are Visual, Aural, Read/Write and Kinesthetic. Under this learning style I fall under the Read/Write category that consist of writing notes on the subject studied, organizing diagrams, drawing branches, and even making up exam questions and answering them. There is also the Multiple Intelligence learning style that measures a persons’ ability to learn by their intelligences type. Logical/Mathematical Intelligence is the category that I fell under after completing the assessment.
As different as each approach may be in every learning style, I noticed that the categories that I fell under describe me as someone who organizes, analyzes and wants facts. Although each of the learning styles has their own theory on learning, I believe that the Myers-Brigs Type Indicator is the one that best applies to me. By knowing my personality type I believe I will become a better learner. I will be able to know what study atmosphere and approach works best.