Aural Learners VARK Analysis: Learning Styles

VARK Analysis:
Learning Styles

Grand Canyon University

Introduction

According to Kumar el al [ ], learning style preference is the manner that allows the individual to learn most efficiently and effectively. A vast majority of students who have completed the VARK analysis are auditory (aural) learners, according to a study completed by Breckler el al [ ]. An aural learner remembers and repeats ideas that are verbally presented and can repeat or fulfill verbal instructions, is an excellent listener and learns concepts well by listening to lectures and audio tapes. An aural learner likes to talk, enjoys music, plays and dramas. Preferential learning strategies are to have things explained verbally,
mentally repeat them, verbally repeat if necessary. Discussing topics with teachers and peers and attending classes, discussions and tutorials is a preferred manner of study for aural learners. Aural learners are more likely to explain new ideas to others. Aural learners are most likely to recall interesting jokes, stories, and examples to share with others. Methodology

Personal preferred learning strategies are attending classes and listening to lectures. Quickly jotting down key words and phrases helps to recall the subject matter later when reviewing the material. Working together with groups is a preferential method of studying, where ideas can be verbalized and worked through. Quietly reviewing the information in my head prior to any type of examination has been the best way for me to recall the information and insure the understanding of the concepts. The identified learning strategies for auditory learners are comparative to the above personal preferred learning strategies. The VARK guide to learning strategies describes auditory learners as people who like to attend classes, discussions and tutorials all which align with my personal learning style. I also like to have group discussions and open discussion with my professors regarding topics of interest or of the particular area of study as the VARK study guide to learning strategies lists as a strong preference for learning by aural learners. The VARK study guide to learning strategies states that aural learners like to use tape recorders and leave spaces in their notes for later recall and ‘filling’, however, these are not my preferred study habits. I do not record lectures; I have tried that in the past and found that it annoys me to listen to the same lectures with the same background noise, so much that I just tune out the lecture all together. I very rarely take ‘notes’, what I do take, ends up being more of a list of key terms and pages to look over certain diagrams and such. The VARK does state that aural learners take poor notes and I would align with that concept well, I prefer to verbally review my understanding of the topic with others, this helps me to recall the information and grasp the concept.

Results

After taking the VARK assessment and reviewing the results there are many things that can be done to improve my current study habits.
Since on-line courses are more flexible and convenient, I will now imagine that I am talking with my professor and allow the conversation to exist in my head. I will now read aloud the lecture notes and explain my ‘notes’ to another aural person. Reading the lecture notes aloud, summarizing the notes and then discussing them with my colleges to see if they understand the topic will help me measure my understanding of the topic, is another suggestion provided by the VARK assessment that I will attempt in order to improve my study habits. According to Faber [ ], auditory learners will find it much easier to understand what they need to do if they hear it, therefore by verbalizing my studies I can reach my desired outcome of improvement in retention of the course
material.

Conclusion

The VARK assessment was designed to provide educators with the knowledge of vast learning styles to respect the diversity of the learners, Kumar el al [].
The VARK assessment provides the educators with the knowledge that the students have the ability to learn in different ways if the methods of teaching are appropriate to the students’ preference, Kumar el al [ ]. The VARK assessment is a great tool for students to identify their learning styles and enhance their study skills. The VARK assessment tool should be used at many different levels not just the collegiate level as being able to identify your personal learning style at an early stage in life could enhance students studying abilities at an earlier age, therefore making the transition to college level would be easier for those who struggle with studying.

References
[1] Breckler, J., Teoh, C., & Role, K. (2011, December). Academic performance and learning style self- predictions by second language students in an introductory biology course [Electronic version]. Journal of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning,11(4), 26-43
[2] Faber, K. (2013, April). Supporting pupils with Different Learning Styles 2. British Journal of School Nursing, 8(3), 154.
[3] Kumar, A., Smirti, A., Pratap, S., & Krishnee, G. (2010, November 30). An Analysis of Gender Differences in Learning Style Preferences among [Electronic version]. Indian Journal of Forensic Medicine & Pathology,
5(1), 9-16.

Addendum

The VARK Questionnaire Results
Your scores were:
Visual: 3
Aural: 11
Read/Write: 5
Kinesthetic: 6
You can find more information about your learning preferences in our downloadable book:
How Do I Learn Best? a student 's guide to improved learning
More Information...

You have a strong Aural learning preference.
Use the following helpsheets for study strategies that apply to your learning preference: aural Personal Learning Profile Report
The VARK questionnaire provides four scores and the various combinations of those scores are huge in number. You can order a report based on your specialized profile. Every attempt is made to personalize the report so that it addresses the meanings from your learning preferences in a unique way.
You will receive a report personalised to your VARK scores, as a PDF file, immediately after purchasing.
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