Standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT attempt to measure the performance of students when placed under equal constraints. If each test-taker answers the same questions, each should, in theory, have the same chance to perform well.
However, even when assuming that the exams are a fair method of assessment, the path that each student takes to reach his or her ideal results can vary quite a bit based on learning style.
Numerous learning theories have been proposed to explain why certain students learn better under different circumstances. One of the most detailed models is Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences. Educators often simplify their approach to a more basic model, which includes visual, auditory and kinesthetic learners.
The following tips provide a breakdown of these styles and how to determine which one fits your personality.
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Visual learners: Visual learners do best when reading or viewing new material. Written sources of information are generally quite structured and allow a student to take in information at his or her own pace. You may be a visual learner if you prefer visual aids such as charts, or if you frequently return to your textbook to clarify lecture content.
Visual leaners should concentrate on the plethora of books and study guides available for nearly every subject. Not all resources are created equal, however.
For standardized exams, materials created by the company that publishes the test are most accurate. If you require additional feedback, read book reviews from customers to choose among the many offerings. Flashcards are incredibly valuable tools for the special case of improving vocabulary.
Auditory learners: Auditory learners are naturally drawn to conversation. You may be an auditory learner if you prefer to read your textbook aloud. In classroom settings, auditory learners often find that lectures help them understand the dense textbooks that accompany a course.
Auditory learners are living in a golden age. With the advent of YouTube, Vimeo and a host of other websites, many educational videos are free and widely available.
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Locating the videos relevant to the test for which you are preparing can be difficult, but many websites use keywords to make lessons more searchable. Alternatively, you can read test prep material aloud to a classmate or parent.
Finally, look for audiobooks that you can listen to in the car or on your smartphone or MP3 player. There is limited test prep content available in the audiobook field, but great literature will broaden your vocabulary and popular science articles can help you learn to think critically. For auditory learners, the spoken word is king.
Kinesthetic learners: These learners must be actively involved with the material they are studying. You may be a kinesthetic learner if you prefer to learn by doing. For example, kinesthetic learners may need to physically write out the material they are studying in order to retain the information.
By the time you reach your junior year of high school, you likely know whether you learn better by listening or reading. Kinesthetic learners, on the other hand, can be a hidden group. After all, the average student is expected to listen to the lecture and read the text to gather the information needed to succeed in one of these two places.
If you love reading and you routinely pay close attention in class but you still find it difficult to grasp academic material, you may be a kinesthetic learner.
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Kinesthetic learners are in luck, as both spoken and written materials can be useful as long as you are actively engaged in them. Keep in mind that you should not solely listen to videos or read study guides.
You should have an empty notebook or a computer available, and you will need to sort through the material and write notes. Do not just copy what you hear and read. Rather, personalize your notes to your strengths and weaknesses. The act of writing words without directly copying forces your brain to focus on the topic at hand.
If you are uncertain of your style, experiment. Even if you believe that you know which helps you best, mix elements of each learning style. Many students benefit most from a combination.
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Leverage Your Learning Style for Better Test Prep Results originally appeared on usnews.com
