[hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Discovering and understanding your learning style can help improve retention and guide your study habits.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]There are well over 70 different learning styles, sometimes called learning preferences, but most fit into one of eight categories.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurses are lifelong learners and often must complete continuing education credits to maintain their license.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nursing school is a big commitment of time and energy. Knowing and understanding your personal learning style can help you identify study methods that make the most of your time. According to some experts, there are well over 70 different learning styles, which are sometimes called preferences.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students learn best and quickest with information in their preferred style. Discover what are the different types of learning styles and what study habits best fit each style.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Importance of Identifying Your Learning Style as a Nurse[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]It is crucial for nursing students and practicing nurses to know and understand their preferred learning styles. Nurses are lifelong learners. Many states require [hen-ui-link href=”/resources//nurses-continuing-education-guide/”]continuing education credits to maintain a nursing license[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This requirement ensures that healthcare professionals stay up to date on the latest medical advancements that affect patient care. Nursing students and nurses who understand how they best learn can make the most of their time.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]When information is presented in a way that makes sense to the learner, the information is incorporated more quickly and retained longer. While some experts believe the basic theory is [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00444/full”]conceptually flawed[/hen-ui-link], international data show that Turkish students who prefer one style over another may also demonstrate [hen-ui-link href=”https://bmcmededuc.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12909-018-1400-2″]better academic performance[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6088726/”]One study[/hen-ui-link] examined the learning styles of practicing nurses and found that preferred learning styles do exist and are correlated with job satisfaction and years of experience. The researchers recommended professional development opportunities take advantage of these learning styles.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nursing programs are rigorous and challenging, as they should be for healthcare professionals responsible for patient care. Programs have a demanding credit load and in many cases, critical exams fall within the same week. It is crucial that student nurses identify learning styles to support study habits in school and as they enter the workforce.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Are the Different Learning Styles?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Although there are many different nursing school learning styles, most fall into one of these eight categories. As you determine which categories best fit your style, it’s important to note that most people show a preference for at least one and sometimes two of these learning styles.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Let’s explore what the different types of learning styles are.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]The VARK Learning Styles[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]One of the most prominent theories of learning styles was developed by Neil Fleming and published in 1987. The acronym VARK stands for:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#visual”]Visual[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#auditory”]Auditory[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#reading-writing”]Reading/writing[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#kinesthetic”]Kinesthetic/tactile[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.melioeducation.com/blog/vark-different-learning-styles/”]Fleming identified[/hen-ui-link] these as the four main learning styles. These learning styles fall under the larger umbrella of [hen-ui-link href=”https://tracyharringtonatkinson.com/fleming-vark-theory/”]neurolinguistic programming[/hen-ui-link], which is a way of using perceptual, communication, and behavioral techniques to change [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320368#what-is-nlp”]thoughts and actions[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Honey and Mumford Learning Styles[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Peter Honey and Alan Mumford published their learning styles [hen-ui-link href=”https://expertprogrammanagement.com/2020/10/honey-and-mumford/”]in 1986[/hen-ui-link], which were heavily [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.simplypsychology.org/learning-kolb.html”]based on[/hen-ui-link] Kolb’s Learning Cycle published in 1984. These learning styles are not limited to classroom learning but encompass any time you encounter a [hen-ui-link href=”https://sussexbusinessschool.com/honey-mumford-learning-styles/”]new situation or challenge[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to the [hen-ui-link href=”https://expertprogrammanagement.com/2020/10/honey-and-mumford/”]Honey and Mumford[/hen-ui-link], the following are also learning styles:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#activist”]Activist[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#reflector”]Reflector[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#theorist”]Theorist[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#pragmatist”]Pragmatist[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][/hen-ui-grid][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Tips for Studying Based on Your Learning Style[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Once you have identified the styles that best describe your preferred way of learning, it’s important to take the next step and understand the study methods that support your learning. By making small tweaks to your study habits based on your learning style, you may spend less time learning and retain more information.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some students also find that they work best alone or in groups. The preference isn’t about how information is processed but rather how the student prefers to work. These styles are called social or solitary learning.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Social learners prefer to collaborate or engage with others. They enjoy group discussions, team activities, group projects, or other collaborations. When remote learning, social learners do best when they can engage with other students on video conference calls.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Solitary learners prefer to study on their own. They may get frustrated with group projects or collaborative activities. They prefer being assigned tasks individually and may find it uncomfortable to present information in class.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Social and solitary learners also fall into one or two of the following categories of learners. By using study habits that play to your nursing school learning style strengths, you may improve your retention and academic performance.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ style=”color:#194494″ id=”visual”]Study Tips for Visual Learners[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Visual learners are more engaged and focused when the material can be seen. They retain information best when it is in a visual format, like charts, videos, demonstrations, and images.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students who find themselves drawn to watching demonstrations, retaining more information from video, or easily distracted by lectures may be primarily visual learners.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These students retain more knowledge when they can see the information. Consider the following study habits to support your learning style:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Flashcards[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Note-taking with colored highlighters to color code information[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Charts, graphs, and diagrams[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Memory tools, such as mnemonic devices or visual chains[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Animated videos or learning shows[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Demonstrations[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ style=”color:#194494″ id=”auditory”]Study Tips for Auditory Learners[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students who remember lecture material without writing a lot of notes or can easily remember everyone’s names and birthdays may prefer learning by hearing. Students who are auditory learners may find reading out loud to themself increases their retention and recall.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students who learn best by hearing have many different study habits that can support their learning style, including:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Reading aloud[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Recording lectures[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Listening to music or other forms of sound[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Summarizing out loud what they just read[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Using jingles, songs, and poems to help with remembering dates and information[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Debating out loud in a study or discussion group[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Reading handwritten notes to recordings and listening[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Listening to podcasts and audiobooks[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Discussing topics in one-on-one tutoring[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Creating songs about new content[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ style=”color:#194494″ id=”reading-writing”]Study Tips for Reading/Writing Learners[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These students tend to learn and retain the most information when they read or write it down. Students with a reading/writing preferred learning style enjoy creating lists and summarizing information in ways that make sense to them.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Reading and writing learners absorb new information best when it’s presented in text or displayed as words. There are many study habits that support this learning style, including:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Summarizing information they have read or learned[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Outlining notes or textbook information[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Reading textbooks out loud[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Using crossword puzzles, anagrams, and word searches[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Following information in the book during lectures[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Discussing in small group[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Writing notes and using colored highlighters[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Creating presentations[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Story writing or creative note-taking[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ style=”color:#194494″ id=”kinesthetic”]Study Tips for Kinesthetic Learners[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Also called tactile learners, people who prefer tactile learning enjoy manipulating objects and learning material. They learn best by touching and doing things to make sense of the material.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students who learn best by touch or hands-on activities may have limited ways of learning specific topics. Tactile learners may consider the following study habits to improve their performance:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Moving around while reading or discussing material[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Moving hands or tapping feet when sitting[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Using computer modules to help with a sense of touch[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Sitting where there are limited distractions, often at the front of the classroom[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Pointing things out as they learn[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Studying in short bursts of time with breaks to keep the student engaged[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Having regular breaks that include physical activity[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Conducting experiments or constructing projects[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Creating flashcards[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ style=”color:#194494″ id=”activist”]Study Tips for Activist Learners[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These people learn best by doing, getting their hands dirty, and are enthusiastic about learning new things. They tackle a problem head-on, learn through experiences, and may get bored easily. They enjoy tackling a problem as part of a group.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These individuals enjoy tackling new challenges. They are often social learners and enjoy brainstorming with others. Study habits that increase retention include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Working in groups or group activities[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Trying new experiences[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Doing puzzles[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Role-playing[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Having more hands-on experiences[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ style=”color:#194494″ id=”reflector”]Study Tips for Reflector Learners[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This learning style prefers observing others and analyzing what they see. They like to collect data first and think about it before reaching a conclusion. They get flustered if they don’t have time to prepare or complete a task.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These nursing students enjoy reflecting on the information and data they have gathered. They retain more information when they:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Have time to investigate and think before taking action[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Work without aggressive deadlines[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Are not the leader[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Work collaboratively with others[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Receive feedback[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Are coached[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ style=”color:#194494″ id=”theorist”]Study Tips for Theorist Learners[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These students learn best by understanding the foundation behind why something is the way it is. They learn best using concepts and facts to assimilate the information and form their own theory. They enjoy applying rational thinking. They might struggle with a lack of structure.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The theorist values logical and rational thinking. They are adept at linking complex ideas and study best when they:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Have the opportunity to ask questions[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Are presented with the theory behind the idea[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]See the purpose in what they are learning in everyday life[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Are not confronted with emotions and feelings[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Work with models, facts, and figures[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Can apply a theory[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Have a sense of structure[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Have the opportunity to explore ideas[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ style=”color:#194494″ id=”pragmatist”]Study Tips for Pragmatist Learners[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These learners are practical and learn best when they see how the information can be used in the real world. They have down-to-earth personalities and are frustrated when there is no obvious benefit or payback for what they are learning.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These students like to take what they’ve learned and immediately put it into practice. They do best when they can get things done. Study habits that support a pragmatist include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Showing the student how what they are learning is better than the current way of doing things[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Connecting what’s learned and how it’s put into practice[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Getting feedback from an expert on what they are doing[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Having a practical example the student can build on or copy[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Using case studies[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Problem-solving in groups[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Discussing how to translate theory to practice[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Using guidance and structure[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Demonstrating payback for learning[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card]