It’s a popular belief that people have different styles of learning – visual, aural, reading and writing or kinaesthetic (carrying out physical activities), and that by identifying an individuals preferred learning style, they can be taught more successfully by matching the method of teaching to their learning style.

This belief affects teaching styles within classrooms around the world, revision styles for millions of conscientious students around the world, and is even seen in the workplace as employers and employees aim for greater productivity and enhanced personal development through learning and training courses.

But are learning styles really effective?

Through decades of research, the results have shown that just because you focus on learning through your preferred learning style, it does not mean you will actually learn any more successfully than through other means.  You may, however, think that you have learned more.

More importantly, for those who believe they can only learn in a certain method, they may be trapping themselves.

To reach your full potential, the advice is to consider multiple approaches to learning, not just your favourite style or the style you’ve been told suits you. 

Here are some useful articles about the myth of ‘learning styles’:

• Learning Styles – how to revise better
• Guide for teachers about learning styles
• Scientists write open letter to stop ‘learning style’-approached teaching in school