With the modern world bombarding us with tons of new information at an alarming rate, the ability to learn effectively is crucial for personal and professional growth. However, not everyone learns in the same way. Every one of us has a unique combination of personality traits that influence our preferred methods of learning.
The key to understanding which style will give you the best chance at deeper learning is to know what your personality type is. Once you understand what personality type you are, you’ll be able to zero in on the learning strategies that will work best. In this article, we will go over some of the ways to make this strategy happen.
Identify different learning styles
To match learning styles with personality types effectively, it’s important to understand the different ways you might prefer to learn. Various models have been developed to categorize these preferences and provide insights into how different people process information.
One popular model is called VARK, which focuses on four main ways of learning: Seeing, Auditory, Reading, and Kinetic. Some people learn best through visuals like diagrams or charts, while others prefer listening to lectures or audio materials. Some excel at reading and writing as their primary method of learning, while others thrive in hands-on activities.
Different tools are available for self-assessment to help people identify their preferred learning style. These assessments often include questions about study habits and reactions to different instructional methods or problem-solving approaches.
Find your personality type
Everybody has a distinct personality. This isn’t exactly news. But, how do you know how to categorize your personality type so you can find the right learning style?
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a popular tool that categorizes individuals based on their preferences in how they relate to the world and process information. For instance, some are extroverted and gain energy from the world around them. Others are introverted, drawing energy from internal reflection. Some people gather information primarily through concrete sensing, while others rely on abstract intuition.
Taking that test will give you a personality type that is classified by a four-letter name. For instance, those who are extraverted could be classified as ESTPs and ESFPs. Once you take the test you will find your unique personality name.
How to match them together
The best way to match your personality with your preferred learning style is to take one of the assessments mentioned earlier. First take the MBTI personality quiz to get your personality type. Very often, when you receive your profile, it will give you some clues as to which learning style you are more likely to respond to. Then you should take the VARK assessment to see what your preferred learning style is.
Educators and mentors can also help you narrow down the right style. Teachers who know you can often provide invaluable insights into what they think your preferred learning style should be. They can also suggest effective learning strategies tailored to the learner’s style and personality.
