VARK: Understanding Your Learning Style
As an IB student, self-directed learning is a huge part of the curriculum. Understanding the VARK (Visual, Aural, Read/write and Kinesthetic) Learning Modalities and your ideal learning style may be the first step to effective self-directed learning! What exactly is VARK?
VARK modalities are sensory stimuli that are used for learning which differ from individual to individual. These are the four learning styles covered by VARK:
Visual (V)
The Visual preference includes:
Maps, diagrams, charts, graphs, hierarchies etc.
Designs, white space, patterns, shapes etc.
It does NOT include:
Words in boxes
Still pictures or photographs
Videos
PowerPoint Slides
Aural / Auditory (A)
The Aural preference includes:
Lectures
Group Discussions
Radio or podcasts
Chat-style or abbreviated text messages / emails
Reading things aloud
Talking to oneself
Read / Write (R)
The Read/Write preference includes:
Manuals, reports, essays, assignments
Slides, cue cards
Wikipedia, the Internet
Lists, diaries, journals, dictionaries, quotations
Kinesthetic (K)
The Kinesthetic preference includes:
Demonstrations, simulations, practicals
Videos, movies of “real” things
Case studies, real life applications
The most common forms used in teaching are lectures, slides or words. Knowing your VARK preference and making notes according to it may be helpful in effective learning. Here are some suggestions:
Visual - drawing mind maps or illustrations for each topic
Auditory - using flashcards and talking to yourself to memorise information
Reading/writing - writing essays regarding each topic
Kinesthetic - watching or doing a demonstration of the information being studied
Resources:
https://vark-learn.com/introduction-to-vark/the-vark-modalities/
By: Shana Lam