Consider three different classes—Math, English, and Science. People vary in how easy they consider the classes to be, since each class takes a different approach to teaching the material. Naturally, some people can learn and understand the material better depending on how it’s taught. One reason for this is differences in learning styles!
In 1984, David Kolb categorized four prominent learning styles to help categorize the different approaches to retaining information. The four types are: Active Experimentation (doing), Concrete Experience (experiencing), Abstract Conceptualization (thinking), and Reflective Observation (reflecting). So, what does each of these mean in terms of how the learning is done? Active experimentation is about trying out what you have learned. For instance, learning a new math formula, then trying it out on your own. Concrete experience refers to learning by doing and experiencing. Like going to a museum related to a topic that was covered. With Abstract conceptualization, the learning is done by drawing connections. An example is watching a film related to a topic you’ve already started learning about. Reflective observation means the learning is done by reflecting on or summarizing an experience. Things like reviewing books would go under this style.
One person can have more than one learning style that works for them, and one style can be better suited to certain subjects. The styles don’t have to apply just to classroom learning. Any time you have to take in new information is a learning experience. For example, you start training at a new job. Some people would do best just watching first, then trying the tasks themselves (active experimentation). Others might prefer trying out the tasks themselves with guidance from someone else (concrete experience).
Figuring out what learning style you align with can be very helpful! After figuring out my learning style, I was able to understand what the most effective way to retain information was, and it also led me to understand other things about how I process things around me. As someone who prefers Concrete Experience, I learn best when I physically experience things. When doing a class on examining US and Japanese culture, the experience that sticks in my mind most is taking part in a tea ceremony, in which I was able to experience examples of many cultural practices discussed in class. Outside of class, my learning style just aligns with the way I am. I prefer when things are tangible and can be interacted with- like making to-do lists,
Learning styles are just a way to categorize the different learning experiences people are best suited for. And with that, it acknowledges that people are different, and that one way of doing something is not suitable for everyone. Even beyond learning, there are many different ways people do anything! Some people can remember dates and times with no issue, while others need to write them down or set reminders. If you have trouble with something, whether it’s motivation, studying, organizing, or time management, keep trying different things until you find the method that yields the best results. It’s okay if it takes time, because once you find something perfect for you, it will have been worth it.
WRITTEN BY: Kris Sanders, Empowerteen Creative Writer Intern
Want to know more about YOUR learning style and how your brain works in a way unique to YOU?
Join us at the Empowerteen Summer Retreats where we explore brain styles and how to use tools to help you with learning, motivation, focus, organization, memorization, interpersonal relationships, and behavioral habits. Come learn how to work with your brain, instead of against it, and have fun while making friends in the process! Click Here to sign up for upcoming retreats and events.