Learning styles, I'm sure you have heard of them and the variations that describe ways of gathering, sorting, understanding, and matriculating information for later use. Among the more popular learning style inventories are the four: visual, aural, verbal, and kinesthetic. Although there are a variation of style continuums and categories, research has shown little evidence to support this idea of matching studying activities to a precise learning "style". However, seeing students as more than a mass of empty brains ready to fill has been a benefit to come from this notion. We need to acknowledge the differences among students.
Although specific learning styles may not be as beneficial according to the research, that does not negate the methods of study using visual, aural, verbal, or kinesthetic methods. One reason this approach is popular and even helpful to students, is due to the concept of metacognition, or the process of thinking about one's thinking. Comparing which learning techniques work for your specific subjects, adjusting when necessary, and improving your individual style promotes greater success. With a large amount of supportive research, integrating metacognition activities shows growth and greater memorization across the board.
With that being said, what are some study practices to improve your learning, understanding, and memorizing routines? Here is what I found:
1. Try it out, come to understand what learning "style" works for you
2. Mix up your study routine for better recall
3. Take practice quizzes to assess your understanding
4. Use mnemonic devices to remember information
5. Draw diagrams and mind maps to link ideas together
6. Get plenty of sleep and exercise; both help improve memory and focus
Take some time to look up and learn about some of these practices to see how you might start learning with style. Let me know what you think!
