Preparing for College: Academic

What are Learning Styles? Learning style “refers to the preferential way in which the student absorbs, processes, comprehends, and retains information” (Teach.com). Types of learning styles include: Visual Auditory Physical Logical Social Solitary

Why are Learning Styles Important? Identifying your learning style is important because it can help you in the following areas: Master the course material Study for quizzes and exams more effectively Develop your own strategies for making the most of your time in class

Visual Learners Visual learners prefer to use pictures, images, and spatial understanding. Tips for visual learners: Study in a quiet place. Listen to calming music. Take notes as you read/study and write down information in detail. Re-write your notes. Highlight main ideas using different colors. Scan pictures, headings, and bolded terms before you begin to read. Include a picture cue on flashcards to trigger your memory.

Auditory Learners Auditory learners prefer to grasp material by using sound or music. Tips for auditory learners: Study with a friend, parent, or group so you can discuss and hear the information. Recite the information out loud. Audio record important information and listen to it repeatedly. Read out loud to yourself and verbally summarize material.

Physical Learners Physical learners prefer to grasp concepts by using their body, hands, and sense of touch. Tips for physical learners: Act out or stimulate what you learn (e.g., role-play to practice skills and behaviors). Physically touch objects as you learn about them. Use study materials that you can touch and move around (e.g., flash cards). Perform a physical activity, such as writing or drawing diagrams.

Logical Learners Logical learners prefer to use logical and mathematical reasoning. Tips for logical learners: Research the details that underlie what you learn. Write down why key points make sense to you. Create a visual representation of the material (e.g., graph or chart). Develop an outline of the material or use a graphic organizer.

Social Learners Social learners prefer to grasp concepts by communicating with a partner or group of people. Tips for social learners: Work with others as often as possible. Form a study group. Use role-play and debate techniques. When working in groups, draw or write out concepts one a large piece of paper for the whole group to see. Have one person be the appointed drawer, while the rest of the group chimes in.

Solitary Learners Solitary learners prefer to study alone and desire to have lots of time/space to explore concepts in a manor that makes sense to them. Tips for solitary learners: Seek opportunities to work independently. For group projects, identify tasks that you can complete independently. Record thoughts, questions, or feelings about the material to help recall it later.

Additional Supports for an Accessible Academic Experience Assistive technology: Assistive technology (AT) is a broad term that represents any device that aids a disabled person in performing a task (e.g., wheelchairs or other mobility aids, hearing aids, computer hardware and software, ADL aids, voice- activated environmental controls). Apps for your computer or ipad. Academic accommodations. Speak with your special education teacher or a representative at your university’s Disability Resource Center to explore reasonable accommodations for your classes.

Apply what you have learned! To apply what you have learned in this powerpoint, go to the “Learning Activities” link to complete some fun exercises with the material that you have learned!