What's Your Learning Style?

Adapted from Instructor Magazine

For each question, choose the first answer that comes to mind. Select a, b or c.

Question 1

When you study for a test, would you rather

a) read notes, read headings in a book, and look at diagrams and illustrations.
b) have someone ask you questions, or repeat facts silently to yourself.
c) write things out on index cards and make models or diagrams.

Question 2

Which of these do you do when you listen to music?

a) daydream (see things that go with the music)
b) hum along
c) move with the music, tap your foot, etc.

Question 3

When you work at solving a problem do you

a) make a list, organize the steps, and check them off as they are done?
b) make a few phone calls and talk to friends or experts
c) make a model of the problem or walk through all the steps in your mind  

Question 4

When you read for fun, which do you prefer?

a) a travel book with a lot of pictures in it
b) a mystery book with a lot of conversation in it
c) a book where you answer questions and solve problems

Question 5

To learn how a computer works, would you rather

a) watch a movie about it
b) listen to someone explain it
c) take the computer apart and try to figure it out for yourself

Question 6

You have just entered a science museum, what will you do first?

a) look around and find a map showing the locations of the various exhibits
b) talk to a museum guide and ask about exhibits
c) go into the first exhibit that looks interesting, and read directions later

Question 7

What kind of restaurant would you rather not go to?

a) one with the lights too bright
b) one with the music too loud
c) one with uncomfortable chairs

Question 8

Would you rather go to

a) an art class
b) a music class
c) an exercise class

Question 9

Which are you most likely to do when you are happy?

a) grin
b) shout with joy
c) jump for joy

Question 10

If you were at a party, what would you be most likely to remember the next day?

a) the faces of the people there, but not the names
b) the names but not the faces
c) the things you did and said while you were there

Question 11

When you see the word "d - o - g", what do you do first?

a) think of a picture of a particular dog
b) say the word "dog" to yourself silently
c) sense the feeling of being with a dog (petting it, running with it, etc.)

Question 12

When you tell a story, would you rather

a) write it
b) tell it out loud
c) act it out

Question 13

What is most distracting for you when you are trying to concentrate?

a) visual distractions
b) noises
c) other sensations like, hunger, tight shoes, or worry

Question 14

What are you most likely to do when you are angry?

a) scowl
b) shout or "blow up"
c) stomp off and slam doors

Question 15

When you aren't sure how to spell a word, which of these are you most likely to do?

a) write it out to see if it looks right
b) sound it out
c) write it out to see if it feels right

 

 

Total your a's, b's and c's, and look at the numbers. Most students are able to process information through all three “formats” (visual, auditory and kinesthetic) but learn predominantly through one or two.  Compare your numbers for each category to see which learning style-or combination of styles-is predominant in you. 

 

A score of mostly a's means you may have a visual learning style.

If you scored mostly b's, you may have an auditory learning style.

If you had mostly c's, you may have a kinesthetic learning style.

 

Visual Learners learn by seeing and looking.
  • take numerous detailed notes
  • tend to sit in the front
  • are usually neat and clean
  • often close their eyes to visualize or remember something
  • find something to watch if they are bored
  • like to see what they are learning
  • benefit from illustrations and presentations that use color
  • are attracted to written or spoken language rich in imagery
  • prefer stimuli to be isolated from auditory and kinesthetic distraction
  • find passive surroundings ideal

Auditory Learners learn by hearing and listening.
  • sit where they can hear but needn't pay attention to what is happening in front
  • may not coordinate colors or clothes, but can explain why they are wearing what they are wearing and why
  • hum or talk to themselves or others when bored
  • acquire knowledge by reading aloud
  • remember by verbalizing lessons to themselves (If they don't, they may have difficulty reading maps or diagrams or handling conceptual lessons like math).

Kinesthetic Learners learn by touching and doing.
  • need to be active and take frequent breaks
  • speak with their hands and with gestures
  • remember what was done, but have difficulty recalling what was said or seen
  • find reasons to tinker or move when bored
  • rely on what they can directly experience or perform
  • activities such as cooking, construction, engineering and art help them perceive and learn
  • enjoy field trips and tasks that involve manipulating materials
  • sit near the door or someplace else where they can easily get up and move around
  • are uncomfortable in classrooms without opportunities for hands-on experience
  • communicate by touching and appreciate physically expressed encouragement, such as a pat on the back