Four Types of Learning Styles: Which Type Are You?

We learn something new each and every day. But are we truly learning in a way that allows us to best retain information? And are we putting ourselves in situations that align with our learning needs? The fact is, if you don’t know your preferred method of learning, the answer is likely “no.” Below, we’ve outlined four types of learning style and their differences, so you can identify which type you are. Having this knowledge will allow you to better understand your learning preferences, so you can get the most out of your training and other educational endeavors.

If you’d like to discover your preferred style of learning, take the Learning Styles Questionnaire from HRDQ. Shop Now!

An Introduction to Learning Styles

Before we dive into a specific learning style, it’s important to understand a little about their origins. The learning styles we are presenting here were developed by renowned learning specialists Peter Honey and Alan Mumford. These styles are measured by examining general behavioral tendencies, not perceived beliefs. Honey and Mumford suggest that the key to unlocking your learning potential is capitalizing on your natural preferences. However, in order to be a truly effective learner, it’s best to have abilities in each of the other styles, as well.

Honey and Mumford also suggest that having a thorough understanding of your learning style allows you to do the following:

• Increase awareness of learning skills and processes
• Expand the number of experiences in which you benefit
• Understand the opportunities that are the best fit for your learning needs

Now, let’s explore the four primary learning styles!

Activist

Those who embody the Activist learning style have to get their hands dirty to fully grasp a new concept. They best process information by doing rather than watching, and they often have a very open mind when it comes to tackling new subjects. In fact, they tend to eagerly immerse themselves in the learning process, leaving bias at the door. Activists are quite optimistic individuals who are usually ready and willing to accept change. Some activities that they tend to thrive at include problem-solving, competition, group discussions, and brainstorming.

However, there are also weaknesses to the Activist learning style. First, because they are so eager to learn, they tend to act sporadically and without thinking. They often take unnecessary risks, and they can rush through tasks without fully preparing.

Pragmatist

In order for those with the Pragmatist learning style to retain information, they have to understand how the information applies to the real world. They feel that doing things in practice is pointless and uninteresting if they can’t put it into action in their own life. Pragmatists find limited use in abstract concepts. Instead, they enjoy experimenting with new methods and ideas to test if they work. In addition, they best learn when they have plenty of time to think through how they can apply the subject at hand in reality.

In terms of weaknesses, Pragmatists readily reject information that they do not view as applicable. They often run with the first answer they conclude about a problem, rather than exploring all possibilities. They’re also very impatient when it comes to group speculation and talking for the sake of discussion.

Reflector

People with the Reflector learning style are all about observation. Rather than jumping into the action themselves, they sit back and view situations from a variety of perspectives, gathering data and drawing conclusions as they go. They enjoy spending time reflecting on information and sifting through what they learned through their observations. Some methods of learning they enjoy include feedback, self-analysis, questionnaires, and coaching.

Reflectors will avoid direct participation at all costs—unlike activists, they do not like to get their hands dirty. They are not risk-takers, but instead tend to be overly cautious and calculated. In addition, it often takes Reflectors a long time before they form an opinion or make a decision, because they must analyze all of the facts they’ve collected.

Theorist

Those with the Theorist learning style are always asking “why.” To find meaning in a new concept, they want to know the theory behind the actions. They rely heavily on models, facts, and concepts to engage them throughout the learning process. Theorists enjoy analyzing and synthesizing new information to create new, systematic “theories.”

The downside to this style of learning is that Theorists have very little capacity for lateral thinking—that is, they’re not great at coming up with creative solutions or problems in a different light. They deny anything that is seemingly subjective, and for them, solutions need to be framed as “musts.” Theorists are also very intolerant of change and ambiguity.

Improve Learning Skills with HRDQ

We hope you enjoyed learning about these four types of learning styles! If you’re not sure which type you are, the Learning Styles Questionnaire will determine your exact style. Or, to discover more ways to improve your learning skills, be sure to explore the full HRDQ Learning Collection! Our training consultants will equip you and your team with the tools you need to thrive and better retain information. Start developing your team today!

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