What Type of Learner are You?

Researchers Recognize Four Different Types Of Learners

Article by Jim Subler

Edited by Olivia Metz

Illustrations by Sierra Baumgartner

Layout by Grace Knapke

If there is anything educators have learned about learning, it’s that the one size fits all method of teaching does not work for everyone. In 1987, an educator from New Zealand named Neil Fleming proposed that there were four types of learners: auditory, visual, reading-writing, and kinesthetic. Psychologists were already starting to realize that people learn differently, but Fleming formalized this belief and gave it a name in the form of the acronym VARK, for Visual, Aural, Read, and Kinesthetic, respectively. Some researchers believe it is an oversimplification of what goes on during the learning process. Undoubtedly, not everyone is necessarily going to fit perfectly and neatly into one of these categories, but is likely that one is more dominant than the others.

In addition to the common learning styles, there are exceptional ones where learning disabilities are involved, such as ADHD and dyslexia. In this case, Disability Services comes into play. Those with vision impairment are provided with special computer screens, for example. Someone who has certification from a medical provider as having ADHD is allowed testing in a quiet environment and an extended time period to complete tests.

Michael Epley, student advisor at Wright State University Lake Campus, has been in higher education for ten years. He says that the structure at the college level has changed since he was a student. Back then, lecture halls were dominant, and chairs were all facing forward toward a single focal point. Today, a new concept known as “active learning” is being adopted by many four-year universities. He adds that these classrooms, known as Active Learning Classrooms (ALC), are “student centered and technology rich.” This setup allows students to interact and encourages discussions.

Wright State has also added “success coaches” who assist students both online and on campus. They are part of the student retention team, and their mission statement reads: The student retention team serves students by identifying barriers to success, teaching students to navigate college life, and developing strategies that empower students to achieve their educational goals at Wright State University. Each student is automatically assigned a coach by the first letter of their last name.

Have you thought about what kind of learning style you prefer? There are tests available online, which ask carefully formulated questions, to help you determine what kind of learning style you benefit from the most. Consider how online learning has affected you academically. Keep in mind that there are success coaches available to every student and be sure to complete end-of-semester evaluations, as these help administrators modify the learning process so that it is the most beneficial to all students.