People are better at processing information or learning in certain ways than others.
Back when I was in high school and college -- and to this day this remains true -- I was more adept at learning something by reading actual text about it (textbooks, handouts, etc.) than by having someone explain it to me verbally. In math class, for example, I usually didn't grasp the class content until I got home, read the chapter, and worked through a few problems on my own. When I tried to follow the teacher's lecture, however, he or she would leave me stumped.
I still struggle at times to quickly comprehend what someone is trying to explain to me, whether it's at work or at home. I think part of the reason for this is that people tend to speak hurriedly. When I'm reading a book, however, I can go at my own pace and digest the information in small doses. Even if I try telling someone to slow down, I've found they'll continue to gabble on.
In my case, instruction manuals and guides work wonders for me, and actually being able to "do" enhances the learning experience even further. That's why I'm what you'd call a visual learner (learn by reading text) and tactile learner (hands-on). While I use both, I've always had a way with words, which makes the visual style my preferred mode of learning.
Then there are those who could hear a lecture or be involved in a discussion, commit the information to memory, and never have to open a book on the subject in question. They learn by hearing and listening, which makes them auditory learners. I would assume that this style tends to fit people who are quick on their feet -- those who can grasp on the go. I definitely do not fall in this group; I need to internalize things at my own pace or I can become easily flustered.
Now that you've read about the 3 learning styles, which one(s) work(s) best for you?
For earlier entries, please click here: How to Understand People
Back when I was in high school and college -- and to this day this remains true -- I was more adept at learning something by reading actual text about it (textbooks, handouts, etc.) than by having someone explain it to me verbally. In math class, for example, I usually didn't grasp the class content until I got home, read the chapter, and worked through a few problems on my own. When I tried to follow the teacher's lecture, however, he or she would leave me stumped.
I still struggle at times to quickly comprehend what someone is trying to explain to me, whether it's at work or at home. I think part of the reason for this is that people tend to speak hurriedly. When I'm reading a book, however, I can go at my own pace and digest the information in small doses. Even if I try telling someone to slow down, I've found they'll continue to gabble on.
In my case, instruction manuals and guides work wonders for me, and actually being able to "do" enhances the learning experience even further. That's why I'm what you'd call a visual learner (learn by reading text) and tactile learner (hands-on). While I use both, I've always had a way with words, which makes the visual style my preferred mode of learning.
Then there are those who could hear a lecture or be involved in a discussion, commit the information to memory, and never have to open a book on the subject in question. They learn by hearing and listening, which makes them auditory learners. I would assume that this style tends to fit people who are quick on their feet -- those who can grasp on the go. I definitely do not fall in this group; I need to internalize things at my own pace or I can become easily flustered.
Now that you've read about the 3 learning styles, which one(s) work(s) best for you?
For earlier entries, please click here: How to Understand People
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