Learning Preferences

Combinations

Some educators suggest there are three main types of learning preferences:

Visual: Learners prefer looking at graphics, reading text, or watching a demonstration
Auditory: Learners prefer to listen to things being explained rather than read about them
Kinesthetic (tactile): Learners process information best through a "hands-on" approach

Running woman with labels: auditory (hear it), visual (see it) and kinesthetic (do it)

Those educators also suggest that most of us use a combination of these preferences.

Other educators, including Pashler et al. in Learning Styles: Concepts and Evidence Download Learning Styles: Concepts and Evidence, argue that:

Given the capacity of humans to learn, it seems especially important to keep all avenues, options, and aspirations open for our students, our children, and ourselves. Toward that end, we think the primary focus should be on identifying and introducing the experiences, activities, and challenges that enhance everybody’s learning. (p. 15)

So, while this debate continues, keep yourself open to learning in multiple instructional and studying preferences.

Most importantly, think about and pursue ways of learning that work well for YOU.