Do You Have Any Tips for Particular Learning Styles? E.g. Auditory, Kinesthetic, or Visual Learners?

Asked by Anonymous on our Parent Webinar Series.

Understanding Learning Styles: Fact or Neuromyth?

For years, students have been taught that we all have three distinct learning styles:

• Visual learners: Prefer learning through sight, using tools like note-making and mind maps.

• Auditory learners: Absorb information best by listening or verbalising, such as reading notes aloud.

• Kinesthetic learners: Learn through hands-on activities and practical tasks.

  
  

Students are often encouraged to identify their preferred style and align their study techniques accordingly. However, while this idea has dominated education discussions, it’s actually based on a neuromyth—a widely debunked psychological concept.

Debunking the Learning Styles Myth

Research has never validated the concept of learning styles. A standing prize in the United States for proving the efficacy of learning styles has gone unclaimed for years. The idea originated from studies showing different parts of the brain processing different types of information. While it’s true that individuals may excel in certain areas, such as verbal reasoning, psychologists today agree that this doesn’t mean instructional methods should be tailored to a specific "learning style".

Why Learning Styles Might Be Harmful

1. Labels Create Limits: Students may limit themselves by focusing on their "type" instead of exploring diverse study techniques.

2. Misguided Study Strategies: Relying solely on one style can lead to ineffective learning outcomes.

   
   

Effective Study Strategies for Your Child

Our advice to students has always been to explore a wide range of study techniques and discover the combination that suits their individual needs and context. For instance:

• Some students thrive with mind-mapping, finding it an excellent tool for organising thoughts visually. Others may initially struggle to see its benefits.

• However, when introduced to alternative uses—such as employing mind maps as memory aids during the final stages of exam planning—many students find them invaluable.

The key is exposure and experimentation, enabling students to identify tools that align with their unique preferences and learning objectives.

For more tips on effective note-making, check out our Crash Course on Note-Making.