The Four Learning Styles

Learning is the process of gaining knowledge by means of study, experience, or instruction. It can happen in different ways. It can be formal, informal, active, passive, experiential, or subliminal. Your preference for a particular learning method and how you process new knowledge are related to your personal learning style.

Learning styles refer to the preferred ways individuals absorb, process, comprehend, and retain information. Understanding different learning styles can help tailor educational experiences to suit individuals more effectively.

Having knowledge of a preferred learning style puts people in a better position to select learning experiences that suit their style.

There are four key learning styles to understand:

1. Activist.
   Activists are people who are active and learn by doing. They have an open-minded approach to learning and involve themselves fully in new experiences. They like to brainstorm and problem solve.
   
2. Theorist.
   Theorists try to understand the theory behind someone’s actions. They like models, analytics, and facts when engaging in the learning process. They use logic and apply theories.
   
3. Pragmatist.
   Pragmatists require seeing how learning in practice fits into the real world. They like to experiment and try new techniques to see if they work.
   
4. Reflector.
   Reflectors learn by observing and reflecting. They prefer to observe and view experiences from a number of different perspectives, then make a conclusion.

If you know what kind of learner you are, it will make it easier to absorb information and know how you can best approach a learning situation.

The learning style tools available at HRDQ can help leaders and individuals identify learning styles to maximize training efficiency.

What are learning styles?
Learning styles are the different ways in which people absorb, process, and retain information. They are often categorized into visual, auditory, reading/writing, and kinesthetic styles.

How do I get to know my own personal learning style?
You can take a learning style assessment or quiz, which will help you identify your preferred learning style. Reflecting on how you best understand and remember information can also provide insights.

Can a person have more than one learning style?
Yes, many people are multimodal learners, meaning they use a combination of learning styles depending on the context and material.

Do learning styles change over time?
Yes, learning styles can evolve with experience, education, and age. It's important to periodically reassess your learning preferences.

Is there a single best learning style?
No, there isn't a one-size-fits-all learning style. Each person is unique, and effective learning often involves a mix of styles.