Learning styles
The truth about learning styles theory
Learn the truth about this popular theory and how to learn languages in a way that is suitable to your own personal preferences.
Unlimit your English with your own personal learning style
First of all, what is a learning style?
Maybe you landed here because you’ve heard that people have different preferences and approaches to learning. While there are various learning style models, one common theory is the VARK model, developed by Neil Fleming. According to this model, there are four types of learners:
Visual learners: Visual learners prefer to process information through visual aids such as pictures, charts, and graphs. For language learning, they benefit from using flashcards, visual dictionaries, and watching videos or movies in the target language. They may also find it helpful to visualize vocabulary and grammar concepts in their minds.
Auditory learners: Auditory learners learn best through listening and speaking. They’re great at acquiring language through conversations, lectures, and audio materials like podcasts or language-learning apps. They benefit from reading aloud, participating in group discussions, and using language-learning resources with audio components.
Reading/writing learners: Reading/writing learners prefer to learn through written materials. They enjoy reading textbooks, taking notes, and writing summaries or essays. For language learning, they may focus on grammar rules, vocabulary lists, and written exercises. They can benefit from reading authentic texts, writing journal entries, and engaging in written communication.
Kinesthetic learners: Kinesthetic learners prefer hands-on, physical experiences to reinforce their learning. While language learning may not lend itself as naturally to kinesthetic approaches, these learners can benefit from interactive activities such as role-playing, language games, and using gestures to support vocabulary acquisition. They may also find it helpful to practice speaking and writing while incorporating physical movement.
Sounds great, right? It’s a sexy theory but unfortunately, it has been debunked, disproven, declared a neuro-myth again and again and again.
Learning styles are not real.
Unfortunately, most people still believe in them. Here is why you shouldn’t:
Use the arrows on the left and right to navigate the slideshow below.
The idea that you were born with “this type of brain” or “that type of brain” is not only wrong, but actually harmful.
Believing that you can only learn certain things in certain ways is a limiting way of thinking about your capabilities, and it will not help you learn languages successfully.
So instead of holding on to limiting beliefs about your learning ability, let’s look at what you as an individual are interested in and what you find attractive.
Because if you use your own preferences and tastes to find the best methods to improve your English, you will be unstoppable!
Your own personal style is the key to language learning.
When you're genuinely intrigued by the materials and activities you use to improve your English, your motivation stays high. Indeed, you don’t even really need motivation – you will just naturally want to show up for your practice.
So, forget about conforming to a particular learning style. Don’t let anyone tell you what “the best way” to learn anything is. Instead, find out what works for you.
Your brain learns best when it feels safe, happy, and curious. So, let your personal tastes guide you to explore resources, approaches, and techniques that attract you. Whether it's watching movies, diving into novels, engaging in conversations, or using apps, find what attracts you the most and build a positive relationship with learning.
Take the quiz to find out your personal language learning style to find out the best way for you to improve your English in your own individual study guide.
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