There are many different learning styles and learning preferences. The 3 most common styles include visual learning styles (the most common), auditory learning styles, and tactile (kinesthetic) learning styles. Other learning styles and preferences include logical (mathematical), social (interpersonal), and solitary (introspective). Some individuals may find that they have one dominant learning style and rarely use other styles. Others may find that they use different styles in different situations. There is no right combination. Your style is not set in stone either. You can develop competence in less dominant styles, or you can further develop styles you already use well.

Visual Learning Styles

People who learn best when ideas or topics are presented in visual form, whether it is written language, pictures, diagrams, or videos, are visual learners. Visual learners typically learn best when the teacher provides written study notes, writes on the board, and uses a projector to explain concepts. Visual learners often take detailed notes in class, while studying in a textbook or listening to a lecture. They also create diagrams and use pictures to understand and remember concepts and ideas. If this sounds like you, then you are probably a visual learner – and many people are.

Auditory Learning

Modality If you learn best by participating in class discussions, listening to your teacher’s lectures, listening to audio tapes, or listening to other forms of language – then you are probably an auditory learner. Auditory learners, unlike visual learners, learn, understand, and retain information better when they hear it rather than see it.

Tactile Learning Styles

Tactile learners, also often called kinesthetic learners, are hands-on learners. They learn best when they are able to directly engage with the content they need to learn or understand. Tactile learners usually do well when they are able to handle something in order to understand it. Tactile learners may do particularly well in classrooms that require lab work. Unlike visual learners who learn through sight and auditory learners who learn through hearing, tactile learners learn through touch and feel.