What is your learning style?

BY KAREN GENT

ADULT EDUCATION CONNECTION

Have you ever considered your learning style? Is your learning style predominately visual (seeing), auditory (hearing), or kinesthetic (doing)? Research has shown that students can perform better on tests if they change their study habits to fit their own personal learning styles. In a previous article, visual learning was examined; this article will focus on auditory learning- learning through hearing.

Auditory learners learn best when they hear information. These people can often follow directions very precisely after being told only once or twice what to do. Some auditory learners concentrate better when they have music or some type of noise in the background. They frequently retain information better when they talk it out.

Since hearing and speaking are so closely related, auditory learners will often use their voices as well as their ears. They’ll sometimes repeat what has been said to them; this helps learners process the information. They may also remember complex sets of information by putting them into song or rhythm. Auditory learners may ask, “Could you explain that again?” Experts say that about 30% of Americans are auditory learners.

These people learn best through verbal lectures, discussions, talking things through, and listening to what others have to say. Auditory learners interpret the underlying meanings of speech through listening to tone of voice, pitch, speed, and other nuances. Written information may have little meaning until it is heard. These learners often benefit from reading aloud and using a recording device.

You may be an auditory learner if you:

like to read to yourself aloud.

are not afraid to speak in class.

are good at explaining.

remember names.

notice sound effects in movies.

enjoy music.

are good at grammar and foreign language.

read slowly.

follow spoken directions well.

can’t keep quiet for long periods of time.

enjoy acting and being on stage.

are good in study groups.

Here are some suggested methods of study from which auditory learners may benefit. Use word association to remember facts and lines. Record lectures or watch videos. Repeat facts with your eyes closed. Participate in group discussions. Use audio recordings for language practice. Record notes after writing them.

If you are an auditory learner who is preparing for the GED® test, you may find these study tips useful. Attending a class or engaging in online learning are great options for auditory learners. Contact Southwest Regional Adult Education at 866-581-9935 for information about our tuition-free classes or online distance learning opportunities.

GED® is a registered trademark of the American Council on Education. Used under license.