Peter Horton - Educator

Unit 3: 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? Similarly, have you noticed that some teachers use different methods and activities to teach the same topic? Finally, have you ever felt bored or frustrated in a class that does not match your learning style?

If so, you are not alone. In fact, learning is a complex and personal process that depends on many factors, such as your interests, preferences, strengths, weaknesses, and goals. Although there is no single “right” way to learn, there are different approaches that can help you understand better and enjoy learning more.

In this document, you will first learn about six different learning styles used in education today. These include:
• Student-Centered Approach
• Community Learning
• Cumulative
• Task-Based
• Blended Learning
• Flipped Classroom

Next, you will also learn what each style means, how it works, and what some examples of it are. By the end of this document, you will be able to identify your own learning style and, consequently, find ways to improve your learning experience.

Student-Centered Approach

To begin with, a student-centered approach is a learning style that puts you, the student, at the center of the learning process. This means you have more control and choice over what, how, when, and where you learn. Instead of being a passive receiver of information, you become an active participant in your own learning. Furthermore, you are encouraged to explore your interests, ask questions, and use your strengths and skills to learn.

In addition, a student-centered approach requires more responsibility and accountability. You are expected to set your own goals, plan activities, monitor your progress, and reflect on your outcomes. Likewise, collaboration with peers and teachers, along with seeking feedback, is an essential part of the process.

Some examples of a student-centered approach are:
• Project-based learning: You work on a real-world problem or question that interests you and create a product or presentation that shows your learning.
• Inquiry-based learning: You investigate a topic that sparks your curiosity and use your questions and methods to find answers.
• Self-paced learning: You work at your own speed, choosing the level of difficulty and resources that suit you best.

Community Learning

In contrast, community learning emphasizes the social and cultural aspects of education. This means that you learn with and from others—classmates, teachers, family, friends, and community members. Not only are you an individual learner, but also an active member of a learning community. Moreover, you are encouraged to share your ideas and experiences while also respecting the perspectives of others.

Additionally, community learning occurs in diverse settings, such as classrooms, homes, neighborhoods, or even online. In this way, you are exposed to various opportunities and are expected to connect your learning to your daily life and contribute to society.

Some examples of community learning are:
• Service learning: You participate in projects that benefit your community or a social cause and reflect on how they relate to your learning.
• Cooperative learning: You collaborate in small groups, dividing responsibilities to solve a problem or complete a task.
• Cultural learning: You explore different cultures’ history, traditions, and values and reflect on how they influence your own worldview.

Cumulative

Another learning style is cumulative learning, which emphasizes gradual and continuous development. In other words, you build on what you already know, adding new knowledge and skills over time. As a result, you move from isolated facts toward a meaningful understanding of a subject. Furthermore, you are encouraged to review and revise your prior learning and connect it with new knowledge.

Equally important, cumulative learning requires practice and application in different situations. Instead of memorizing alone, you use knowledge for various purposes and adapt it to new scenarios.

Some examples of cumulative learning are:
• Portfolio: You collect and organize your work over time to show progress and achievements.
• Simulation: You participate in realistic scenarios requiring you to apply knowledge and skills.
• Performance: You present or perform your learning for an audience, such as through a speech, play, or song.

Task-Based

In addition, task-based learning emphasizes authentic and meaningful tasks. That is, you learn by doing activities that are both relevant and practical. Rather than focusing only on theory, you apply your knowledge to solve real-life problems. At the same time, this method develops creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Moreover, task-based learning follows a structured process. You are guided through planning, executing, monitoring, and evaluating tasks while also reflecting on feedback for improvement.

Some examples of task-based learning are:
• Design: Creating a product, service, or solution such as a poster, website, or game.
• Experiment: Conducting scientific experiments to test a hypothesis and analyze data.
• Interview: Preparing and conducting an interview with someone who has expertise on your topic.

Blended Learning

On the other hand, blended learning combines different learning methods and modes. This means you learn through a mix of online and offline, individual and group, formal and informal approaches. Therefore, you are not limited to one method but can customize your learning according to your preferences and goals.

Furthermore, blended learning encourages you to integrate these different methods, using their strengths while overcoming their limitations. In doing so, you must also organize your time effectively to manage learning efficiently.

Some examples of blended learning are:
• Flipped classroom: Watching a lecture or reading before class and using class time for practice or projects.
• Hybrid course: Taking a course with both online and face-to-face components.
• Personalized learning: Using a digital platform that adapts to your pace and style.

Flipped Classroom

Finally, a flipped classroom reverses the traditional teaching approach. Instead of listening to lectures during class, you study materials beforehand, such as videos or texts. Then, classroom time is used for discussions, practice, and interactive activities. Consequently, this method allows you to prepare in advance and deepen your understanding during class.

Additionally, a flipped classroom emphasizes collaboration. You are encouraged to ask questions, share ideas, and use feedback from teachers and peers to enhance learning. Most importantly, you take greater responsibility for your own progress.

Some examples of flipped classrooms are:
• Math: Watching a video lesson at home and solving problems in class.
• History: Reading about an event before class, then debating or role-playing it during class.
• Science: Conducting an experiment before class and analyzing results during class.