If you learn better by hearing, you are an auditory learner; if you learn better by seeing, you are a visual learner; and if you learn better by doing, you are a tactile learner. If you still aren't sure which type of learner you are, the following information should help.
Auditory learners—learning by hearing
Here are some characteristics of auditory learners:- They prefer to hear information.
- They have difficulty following written directions.
- They have difficulty with reading and writing.
- They may not look the speaker in the eye; instead, they may turn their eyes away so they can focus more on listening.
If you're an auditory learner, keep in mind the following study suggestions:
- Listen to readings and lectures on CDs or online recordings (when available).
- Participate in discussions, ask questions, and repeat given information.
- Summarize or paraphrase written material and record the information.
- Discuss the material with someone else.
Visual learners—learning by seeing
Visual learners share the following characteristics:- They need to see it to learn it; they must have a mental picture.
- They have artistic ability.
- They have difficulty with spoken directions.
- They find sounds distracting.
- They have trouble following lectures.
- They may misinterpret words.
If you're a visual learner, follow these suggestions:
- Use visuals (graphics, films, slides, illustrations, doodles, charts, notes, and flashcards) to reinforce learning.
- Use multicolored highlighters or pens to organize your notes.
- Write down directions.
- Visualize words, phrases, and sentences to be memorized.
- Write everything down; review often.
Tactile learners—learning by touching
Here are some characteristics of tactile learners:- They prefer hands-on learning or training.
- They can often put objects together without the directions.
- They have difficulty sitting still.
- They learn better when they can get involved.
- They may be coordinated and have athletic ability.
If you're a tactile learner, try the following strategies:
- Make a model, do lab work, role-play, "be the ball."
- Take frequent breaks.
- Copy letters and words to learn how to spell and remember facts.
- Use a computer to study as much as possible.
- Write facts and figures over and over.
- Read and walk, talk and walk, repeat and walk.