Learning styles represent the different approaches to learning based on preferences, weaknesses, and strengths.

In a paper (750‐1,000 words), summarize your analysis of this exercise and discuss the overall value of learning styles.

Learning styles represent the different approaches to learning based on preferences, weaknesses, and strengths. For learners to best achieve the desired educational outcome, learning styles must be considered when creating a plan. Complete “The VARK Questionnaire,”( http://vark-learn.com/the-vark-questionnaire/ ) located on the VARK website, and then complete the following:

1. Click “OK” to receive your questionnaire scores.
2. Once you have determined your preferred learning style, review the corresponding link to view your learning preference.
3. Review the other learning styles: visual, aural, read/write, kinesthetic, and multimodal (listed on the VARK Questionnaire Results page).
4. Compare your current preferred learning strategies to the identified strategies for your preferred learning style.
5. Examine how awareness of learning styles has influenced your perceptions of teaching and learning.

In a paper (750‐1,000 words), summarize your analysis of this exercise and discuss the overall value of learning styles. Include the following:

1. Provide a summary of your learning style according the VARK questionnaire.
2. Describe your preferred learning strategies. Compare your current preferred learning strategies to the identified strategies for your preferred learning style.
3. Describe how individual learning styles affect the degree to which a learner can understand or perform educational activities. Discuss the importance of an educator identifying individual learning styles and preferences when working with learners.
4. Discuss why understanding the learning styles of individuals participating in health promotion is important to achieving the desired outcome. How do learning styles ultimately affect the possibility for a behavioral change? How would different learning styles be accommodated in health promotion?

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Expert Answer and Explanation

VARK Questionnaire Analysis

The VARK questionnaire is a learning style assessment tool that was developed by Neil Fleming in 1987 (VARK Learn Limited, 2023a). The acronym VARK stands for Visual, Auditory, Reading/Writing, and Kinesthetic, which represent the four main learning modalities or styles. The primary design of the questionnaire is to help individuals understand their preferred learning style(s) and use this knowledge to enhance their learning experience. The VARK questionnaire consists of 16 multiple-choice questions that assess an individual’s preferred mode(s) of learning.

The relevance of the VARK questionnaire lies in its ability to help individuals tailor their learning strategies and techniques to their preferred learning style(s), resulting in more effective and efficient learning outcomes (VARK Learn Limited, 2023a). Understanding one’s learning style can also help individuals communicate better with educators and peers and improve teamwork and collaboration in various settings. This paper will focus on my personal VARK results and how they are in line with my learning outcomes.

Summary of My Learning Style

The results from the VARK questionnaire shows my scores as Visual 5, Aural 6, Read/Write 2, Kinesthetic 14. Based on the VARK results, it appears that my preferred learning style is Kinesthetic. A very strong kinesthetic means I learn best through physical activities and experiences. I also tend to prefer hands-on learning, such as performing experiments, engaging in role-play, and using practical applications.

Additionally,  the learning style also is also related to my preference to move around while learning or take frequent breaks to avoid feeling restless or bored. On the other hand, I may find it challenging to learn through traditional methods such as lectures or reading. Inclusion of movement and tactile experiences into my learning can help me retain information more effectively.

My Preferred Learning Strategies

My preferred learning strategy is through movement, and hands-on experiences which makes me a strong kinesthetics learner. As a kinesthetic learner, I benefit more from activities that involve manipulating objects or using their bodies to explore concepts. Kinesthetic learners tend to prefer learning through practical applications.

The practical aspects could mean applying concepts to real-world problems or using technology and multimedia to engage in virtual simulations. I also tend to learn better when I am moving. Movement could mean taking frequent breaks to stretch or walk around or incorporating physical movement into learning activities, such as using hand gestures to represent ideas.

Unlike other learning styles that are either based on auditory or visuals, Kinesthetic learners enjoy engaging in activities that allow them to experience concepts firsthand. For instance, I can learn better through role-playing, acting out scenarios, or participating in debates as a means to retain more information. Since I am a Kinesthetic learner, it is essential to tailor my learning strategies to my preferences.

Over time, I have learned that I benefit more from incorporating movement into my learning activities or engaging in hands-on activities to reinforce concepts. Additionally, I realized that virtual simulations or practical applications can help me to retain information more effectively than traditional methods like reading or lectures.

Impact of Learning Style

Individual learning styles can significantly impact the ability of a learner to understand and perform educational activities. Each learner has a unique set of preferences and tendencies, and catering to these preferences can improve their engagement, motivation, and overall learning outcomes. For instance, a Kinesthetic learner may struggle to grasp abstract concepts presented through traditional lectures or reading materials but may excel when given hands-on learning activities or practical applications (VARK Learn Limited, 2023).

It is therefore crucial for educators to identify individual learning styles and preferences when working with learners to ensure that they can create effective learning environments that cater to each student’s needs. This approach can improve the understanding and performance of a learner, leading to better academic outcomes and greater satisfaction with the learning process. A definitive and better learning style can support a more inclusive and supportive learning environment where learners feel seen, heard, and valued, ultimately improving their overall educational experience.

Learning Styles for Better Health Promotion

Understanding the learning styles of individuals participating in health promotion is essential to achieving the desired outcomes (Chholak et al., 2019). Different individuals have distinct learning styles, and catering to these preferences can improve their understanding and retention of information and increase the likelihood of achieving behavioral change.

For instance, Visual learner may benefit more from visual aids while Kinesthetic learner may respond better to learning opportunities that involve practical applications (Chholak et al., 2019). Educators in health promotion need to be aware of these preferences and cater to them appropriately to ensure that the participants are adequately engaged, motivated, and empowered to make behavioral changes.

Conclusion

It is essential to recognize your learning style and use it to your advantage when seeking out educational opportunities or engaging in collaborative activities to maximize your learning potential. By understanding and utilizing your preferred learning strategies, you can optimize your learning potential and achieve your academic and professional goals. By tailoring learning opportunities to each participant’s learning style, they can effectively communicate important health information and promote positive health behaviors while supporting participants’ unique needs and preferences.

References

Chholak, P., Niso, G., Maksimenko, V. A., Kurkin, S. A., Frolov, N. S., Pitsik, E. N., … & Pisarchik, A. N. (2019). Visual and kinesthetic modes affect motor imagery classification in untrained subjects. Scientific reports, 9(1), 1-12.

VARK Learn Limited. (2023). Kinesthetic Strategies. VARK: A Guide to Learning Preferences. Vark-Learn.com. https://vark-learn.com/strategies/kinesthetic-strategies/

VARK Learn Limited. (2023a). Biography: A Brief Biography of Neil D. Fleming. VARK: A Guide to Learning Preferences. Vark-Learn.com. https://vark-learn.com/introduction-to-vark/biography/

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The VARK Learning Styles: A Comprehensive Guide

What is the VARK Model?

The VARK model is a learning styles framework that categorizes how individuals prefer to receive and process information. The VARK model by Neil Fleming classifies learner preferences into four basic categories – visual, auditory, reading/writing, and kinesthetic (VARK) and is the birthplace of the multimodal learning concept. VARK is a learning styles questionnaire that helps you learn better by suggesting the best study strategies for you.

The acronym VARK represents four distinct learning modalities: Visual (V), Auditory (A), Reading/Writing (R), and Kinesthetic (K). This model suggests that understanding your preferred learning style can enhance your educational experience by allowing you to tailor your study methods to match your natural preferences.

The Origin of The VARK Model

The VARK model was developed by Neil Fleming, a New Zealand educator, in the 1980s. Fleming created this framework after observing that students responded differently to various teaching methods and information presentation styles. His work built upon existing theories of learning preferences and sought to provide a practical tool for both educators and learners.

Fleming’s motivation stemmed from his recognition that traditional one-size-fits-all teaching approaches were not meeting the diverse needs of students. He wanted to create a simple, accessible system that would help individuals identify their learning preferences and adapt their study strategies accordingly.

The VARK Learning Styles: 4 Different Learning Styles

Visual Learners (V)

Visual learners prefer to process information through images, diagrams, charts, graphs, and other visual representations. They tend to think in pictures and benefit from seeing information presented graphically. Visual learners often:

• Create mind maps and flowcharts
• Use color coding in their notes
• Prefer demonstrations over verbal explanations
• Remember faces better than names
• Benefit from infographics and visual aids

Auditory Learners (A)

Auditory learners process information best through listening and speaking. They prefer verbal instructions and discussions, and often benefit from hearing information rather than reading it. Auditory learners typically:

• Enjoy lectures and discussions
• Learn through listening to recordings
• Prefer to talk through problems
• Remember conversations and spoken instructions well
• Benefit from reading aloud or using text-to-speech tools

Reading/Writing Learners (R)

Reading/Writing learners prefer text-based information and excel at processing written words. They learn best through reading and writing activities. These learners often:

• Take extensive notes
• Prefer written instructions
• Learn well from textbooks and written materials
• Express themselves better in writing
• Create lists and written summaries

Kinesthetic Learners (K)

Kinesthetic learners prefer hands-on experiences and learn through physical activity and movement. They need to engage their bodies in the learning process. Kinesthetic learners typically:

• Learn through trial and error
• Prefer laboratory work and experiments
• Use gestures when speaking
• Need breaks during long study sessions
• Benefit from real-world applications and examples

What Type of Learning Style is Right for Me?

Determining your learning style involves self-reflection and observation of your preferences and behaviors. Consider how you naturally approach new information and which methods help you retain knowledge most effectively. Many individuals exhibit characteristics of multiple learning styles, known as multimodal learning preferences.

Study revealed significant variations in learning style preferences among the ODL students. There are 89 (36.18%) ODL students with single preference of learning, while others demonstrate combined preferences. It’s important to remember that learning styles can vary depending on the subject matter, context, and individual circumstances.

To identify your learning style, observe:

• How you prefer to receive new information
• Which study methods are most effective for you
• How you naturally organize and process information
• Your preferences in different learning environments

Example VARK Question

A typical VARK questionnaire question might be:

“When you are learning a new software program, you prefer to:”

A) Watch a demonstration video showing the steps (Visual) B) Have someone explain the process verbally (Auditory) C) Read the instruction manual or help documentation (Reading/Writing) D) Experiment with the program and learn by trying different features (Kinesthetic)

Your responses to multiple questions like this help determine your learning style preferences. Fill in the VARK questionnaire to find out your learning style – do you prefer to use Visual, Aural, Read/write or Kinesthetic learning strategies, or a combination?

The Disadvantages of VARK Learning Styles

While the VARK model has gained popularity, it faces several criticisms and limitations:

Oversimplification

A prominent criticism lies in its oversimplified categorization of learners into four distinct types. Learning is a complex process and may not be fully captured by a four-category model. Critics argue that reducing the complexity of human learning to four categories may not accurately reflect the multifaceted nature of how people acquire knowledge.

Limited Scientific Evidence

No study has shown that teaching to an identified learning style results in better retention, better learning outcomes or student success. Research has consistently failed to demonstrate that matching teaching methods to identified learning styles improves educational outcomes.

Potential for Labeling

Some critics have suggested that labeling students as having one specific learning style can hinder learning. This labeling may create self-imposed limitations and prevent students from developing skills in other learning modalities.

Overemphasis on Modalities

Critics argue that VARK places an excessive emphasis on sensory modalities and may oversimplify the complex nature of learning preferences. Learning involves multiple cognitive processes that extend beyond simple sensory preferences.

Using VARK Learning Styles to Benefit Online Learning

Despite criticisms, the VARK model can provide practical benefits for online learning environments when used appropriately:

Multimodal Content Delivery

Online educators can incorporate all four VARK modalities into their courses:

• Visual elements: infographics, videos, charts, and diagrams
• Auditory components: podcasts, recorded lectures, and discussion forums
• Reading/Writing materials: text-based resources, assignments, and written assessments
• Kinesthetic activities: simulations, virtual labs, and interactive exercises

Personalized Learning Paths

The main objective of this study is to determine the impact of VARK learning styles (visual (V), aural (A), read/write (R), and kinesthetic (K)) in enhancing parasitological laboratory skills using social media and various learning theories. Online platforms can offer multiple formats for the same content, allowing learners to choose their preferred method of engagement.

Self-Awareness and Metacognition

Understanding VARK preferences can help online learners develop better self-awareness about their learning processes, even if the model itself has limitations. This metacognitive awareness can lead to more effective study strategies.

Criticisms of the VARK Learning Styles

The scientific community has raised several significant concerns about learning styles theories, including VARK:

Lack of Empirical Support

A new review by Swansea University reveals there is widespread belief around the world in a teaching method that is not only ineffective but may actually be harmful to learners. Numerous studies have failed to find evidence supporting the effectiveness of matching instruction to learning styles.

Myth Perpetuation

For decades educators have been advised to match their teaching to the supposed ‘learning styles’ of students. There are more than 70 different classification systems, but the most well-known (VARK) sees individuals being categorised as visual, auditory, read-write or kinesthetic learners. Despite lack of evidence, the learning styles theory continues to be widely accepted in educational settings.

Methodological Issues

Research on learning styles often suffers from poor methodology, including:

• Self-report bias in questionnaires
• Lack of control groups in studies
• Failure to separate learning preferences from learning effectiveness
• Inconsistent definitions of learning styles across studies

Fixed Mindset Concerns

Although the VARK learning styles have been widely regarded as helpful for students who have a better understanding of themselves and how to direct their studying, it has also faced some criticism – with the largest being the limitations of categorising learning in this way. Categorizing learners may inadvertently promote a fixed mindset about abilities rather than encouraging growth and adaptability.

Applications for Learning Professionals

Despite criticisms, learning professionals can derive practical value from understanding the VARK model when used appropriately:

Instructional Design

Rather than matching instruction to supposed learning styles, professionals can use VARK as a framework for creating varied, multimodal learning experiences that engage different senses and cognitive processes.

Learner Engagement

Students possess a wide diversity in learning preferences. This necessitates teachers to effectively deliver according to the needs of the student. Multiple modalities of information presentation are necessary to keep the attention and motivation of our students

Professional Development

Understanding different ways people prefer to receive information can help trainers and educators diversify their teaching methods, not because of learning styles theory, but because varied instruction benefits all learners.

Assessment Design

Learning professionals can create assessments that allow students to demonstrate knowledge through multiple formats, providing more comprehensive evaluation opportunities.

Individual Coaching

While avoiding rigid categorization, coaches and mentors can use VARK concepts to help individuals explore different approaches to learning and skill development.

Conclusion

The VARK learning styles model, while popular and intuitively appealing, should be approached with appropriate skepticism given the lack of scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness. However, the model’s emphasis on multimodal learning and individual preferences can still provide value when used as a tool for promoting instructional variety rather than rigid categorization.

Learning professionals should focus on evidence-based teaching practices while remaining aware of individual differences in preferences and backgrounds. Rather than matching instruction to supposed learning styles, the goal should be creating rich, varied learning experiences that engage multiple senses and cognitive processes for all learners.

The ongoing debate about learning styles serves as an important reminder of the need for evidence-based practice in education and the danger of accepting appealing theories without rigorous scientific validation.

References

Appsembler. (2024, April 3). Mastering learning styles: An in-depth guide to the VARK model. Appsembler Blog. https://appsembler.com/blog/mastering-learning-styles-an-in-depth-guide-to-the-vark-model/

BMC Medical Education. (2024). Influence of applying VARK learning styles on enhancing teaching skills: Application of learning theories. BMC Medical Education. https://bmcmededuc.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12909-024-05979-x

EuroSchool. (2024, February 14). VARK learning style: Types, strategies, benefits. EuroSchool Blog. https://www.euroschoolindia.com/blogs/vark-learning-style-types-strategies-benefits/

Journal of African Educational Research Network. (2024). Understanding the learning style preferences of ODL students using VARK model: Implications for individualized pedagogy and student success. African Journal of Educational Studies in Mathematics and Sciences. https://journalajess.com/index.php/AJESS/article/view/1365

Melio Education. (2024). 4 different learning styles: The VARK theory. Melio Education Blog. https://www.melioeducation.com/blog/vark-different-learning-styles/

Swansea University. (2021, January 6). New review says ineffective ‘learning styles’ theory persists in education around the world. Swansea University Press Office. https://www.swansea.ac.uk/press-office/news-events/news/2021/01/new-review-says-ineffective-learning-styles-theory-persists-in-education-around-the-world-.php

University of Michigan. (2024). Roundup on research: The myth of ‘learning styles’. Online Teaching Resources. https://onlineteaching.umich.edu/articles/the-myth-of-learning-styles/

VARK Learn. (2024, April 26). The VARK questionnaire: How do you learn best? VARK Learn. https://vark-learn.com/the-vark-questionnaire/

VARK Learn. (2025, April 2). VARK learning styles. VARK Learn. https://vark-learn.com/

Whatfix. (2024, December 20). VARK learning styles & multimodal learning (2025). Whatfix Blog. https://whatfix.com/blog/multimodal-learning/

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