Understand Your Own Learning Style
What is VARK?
VARK is an acronym that stands for Visual, Auditory, Reading/Writing, and Kinesthetic. It’s a model developed by Neil Fleming that identifies four primary types of learners, each with distinct preferences for absorbing, processing, and retaining information.
- Visual Learners: Think in pictures and are drawn to charts, diagrams, and videos.
- Auditory Learners: Thrive on spoken information, discussions, and listening to others.
- Reading/Writing Learners: Prefer words, whether it’s reading books, writing notes, or taking tests.
- Kinesthetic Learners: Need hands-on experiences; they learn best by doing, experimenting, and engaging physically with content.
Why Understanding Your Learning Style Matters
The VARK model isn’t about boxing you into one style—it’s about recognising your strengths and adapting the way you learn to suit your needs. Imagine the frustration of trying to learn from a lengthy written manual when you’re a kinesthetic learner who needs to see and touch the equipment. Or the struggle of being an auditory learner in a lecture filled with dense PowerPoint slides. Recognising your VARK type can save you time, frustration, and can transform your learning journey into something more enjoyable and efficient.
How to Identify Your Learning Style
You might be wondering, “How do I know which learning style suits me best?” Here are some introspective questions to get you started:
You might resonate with one, or even a combination of these styles. The VARK questionnaire is a great tool to pinpoint your preferences if you’re unsure.
- Do you find yourself doodling or making diagrams to understand concepts better?
- Do you remember things better after discussing them with someone?
- Do you prefer reading articles, manuals, or writing things down to understand?
- Do you like to get hands-on and physically involved when learning something new?
Try taking the test and see how you go!
“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.”
— Benjamin Franklin.
Personalising Your Learning Experience
Once you’ve identified your learning style, the next step is to tailor your learning experiences. Here’s how:
- For Visual Learners: Create mind maps, use colour coding, watch educational videos, and look for charts and diagrams to visualise information.
- For Auditory Learners: Record lectures, listen to podcasts, join study groups, and try to discuss concepts with peers.
- For Reading/Writing Learners: Take notes, summarise information in your own words, use lists, and read extensively on the subject.
- For Kinesthetic Learners: Engage in simulations, perform experiments, use physical objects to learn concepts, and practice real-world applications.
The Emotional Impact of Learning Right
There’s an undeniable emotional component to learning. The frustration of feeling left behind, the anxiety of not grasping new concepts, or the exhilaration when things finally click—these feelings are powerful. VARK isn’t just about academic success; it’s about honouring your individuality and giving you the tools to thrive. When learning aligns with your style, you’re not just memorising; you’re engaging, understanding, and growing. It’s like finally finding the right key to unlock your potential.