Posted on 16th August 2017 by New College Group

Which type of learner are you?

There are different ways of learning that are suited to different people. To get the best out of your education, it’s helpful to find out which type of learner you are.

Learning a new language is difficult, especially English, but you can make it easier by identifying the best methods for you to learn. Once you know the best way for you to learn, you can implement these tactics on your course and at home when you’re studying.

One of the most recognised models of learners is the VARK model. The VARK model identifies four different types of learners:

We’re going to examine the four different learner types outlined in the VARK model. And explain how you can make learning work for you.

•     Visual
•     Auditory
•     Reading and Writing
•     Kinesthetic

Visual

If you are a visual learner you will learn best through imagery and visual cues. So things like graphs, charts and presentations filled with imagery will benefit this type of learner. Visual learners need to be able to see the information they are learning in image form. They can easily retain information this way. If you are learning English and identify as a visual learner, you might find it useful to create image based cue cards to help you learn and remember certain words or phrases. For example, when learning the word school, have a picture of a school as well as the word.

Auditory

If you are an auditory learner you will learn best through listening exercises and repeating information aloud. Hearing the information allows auditory learners to retain and understand information better. Discussions, lectures and question and answer sessions will benefit this type of learner. If you are learning English and identify as an auditory learner, why not form your own study group so you can ask and answer questions with each other? Alternatively you can get a friend to quiz you with an oral exam so you can repeat the information aloud.

Reading & Writing

If you are a reading & writing learner you will learn best using words. So things like textbooks, handouts and notes will benefit this type of learner. Reading & writing learners learn best when they interact with text. If you’re this type of learner, annotating presentations, handouts and information sheets will help you learn best in class, as will reading books. When you’re studying at home, make your own notes, write your own cue cards and do some online quizzes to really get the language down.

Kinesthetic

If you are a kinesthetic learner, you learn best through action and hands-on interaction. Sitting and listening or simply making notes isn’t the best way to learn for kinesthetic learners. Instead, interactive games, experiments and role-playing is the best way for kinesthetic learners to really understand the information they are being given. Whilst you’re on your English language course why not play fun games such as charades to improve your skills?

Here at NCG, our General English Course tries to accommodate every different type of learner so that they get the best experience possible. We have the very best professional English language teachers to ensure every student achieves the highest language skills possible. Contact us today to find out more!