Peter Horton - Educator

Unit 7 – The Best Methods, Strategies, and Learning Styles:How Do You Learn Best?

Introduction

Have you ever wondered why some people learn better by doing, while others learn better by listening or reading? In the same way, have you ever noticed that some teachers use different methods and activities to teach the same topic? On the other hand, have you ever felt bored or frustrated in a class that does not match your learning style?

You are not alone if you answered yes to any of these questions. In fact, learning is a complex and personal process that depends on many factors, such as your interests, preferences, strengths, weaknesses, and goals. Therefore, there is no single “right way” to learn, but there are many different ways that can help you understand better and enjoy learning more.

In this document, you will learn about six different learning styles used in education today. They are:

Student-Centered Approach

Community Learning

Cumulative

Task-Based

Blended Learning

Flipped Classroom

Moreover, you will learn what each style means, how it works, and see examples of it. By the end, you will be able to identify your own learning style and find ways to improve your learning experience.

Student-Centered Approach

A student-centered approach is a learning style that puts you, the student, at the center of the learning process. In other words, you have more control and choice over what, how, when, and where you learn. You are not just a passive receiver of information but an active participant. For this reason, you are encouraged to explore your interests, questions, and goals and to use your strengths and skills to learn.

In addition, a student-centered approach means that you take more responsibility for your own learning. For example, you are expected to set goals, plan activities, monitor your progress, and reflect on outcomes. At the same time, you will likely collaborate with peers and teachers, seeking feedback and support when needed.

Examples include:

Project-based learning: You work on a real-world problem or question that interests you, creating a product or presentation.

Inquiry-based learning: You investigate a topic or phenomenon that sparks your curiosity, using your own questions and methods.

Self-paced learning: You study topics or skills at your own pace, choosing difficulty levels and resources that fit you best.

Community Learning

Community learning emphasizes the social and cultural aspects of learning. In this style, you learn with and from others, such as classmates, teachers, family, and community members. As a result, you are not just an individual learner but part of a learning community. You are encouraged to share your ideas, listen to others, and connect learning to real life.

Furthermore, community learning happens in different settings—classrooms, homes, neighborhoods, or even online. Therefore, you are exposed to a variety of opportunities and resources. At the same time, you are expected to contribute to your community and use your learning to make a positive impact.

Examples include:

Service learning: You participate in projects that benefit your community or support a social cause.

Cooperative learning: You work in a small group, dividing responsibilities to solve a problem together.

Cultural learning: You study the history, traditions, and beliefs of different cultures, connecting them to your own identity and worldview.

Cumulative Learning

Cumulative learning emphasizes gradual and continuous progress. This means you build on what you already know, adding new knowledge and skills over time. Step by step, you move from isolated facts to a deeper, more connected understanding. Therefore, reviewing and revising previous lessons is an important part of this style.

In addition, cumulative learning asks you to apply knowledge in different situations. Instead of just memorizing facts, you use information for real purposes and audiences. Consequently, you can transfer your learning to new contexts and adapt as needed.

Examples include:

Portfolio: You collect and organize work samples that show progress over time.

Simulation: You participate in interactive, realistic scenarios requiring knowledge and skills.

Performance: You present your learning through a speech, play, song, or dance.

Task-Based Learning

Task-based learning emphasizes authentic and meaningful tasks. In other words, you learn by doing things that are relevant to real life. As a result, you apply creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills while completing tasks with clear goals.

Moreover, this approach follows a structured process. Instead of working randomly, you plan, execute, monitor, and evaluate tasks. Along the way, feedback and reflection help you improve.

Examples include:

Design: You create a product, service, or solution, such as a poster, website, or game.

Experiment: You test a hypothesis with a scientific experiment and analyze the results.

Interview: You prepare and conduct an interview with someone knowledgeable in your chosen topic.

Blended Learning

Blended learning combines different modes and methods. This means you use both online and offline, individual and collaborative, formal and informal approaches. In this way, you gain flexibility to customize learning to your needs.

Furthermore, blended learning emphasizes balance. Rather than switching between methods randomly, you integrate them in meaningful ways. For this reason, you must organize your learning effectively.

Examples include:

Flipped classroom: Watch a lecture or read a text before class, then use class time for practice.

Hybrid course: Combine online and face-to-face components.

Personalized learning: Use digital platforms that adapt to your level and style.

Flipped Classroom

A flipped classroom reverses the traditional order. Instead of listening to a lecture in class, you study the material at home and use class time for activities. Therefore, class becomes more active, interactive, and hands-on.

In addition, flipped classrooms emphasize collaboration. During class, you ask questions, share ideas, and give or receive feedback. At the same time, you take responsibility for preparing before class.

Examples include:

Math: Watch a video lesson at home, then solve problems in class.

History: Read about a historical event before class, then debate or role-play in class.

Science: Do a lab experiment before class, then analyze results together.