In the fast paced nature of many businesses today, it is imperative that instructors and trainers go back to basics and recall that each of their learners possess their own learning style. These varying styles of learning can be easily accommodated in the learning/classroom environment through the use of e-Learning. Making changes towards this simple realization will not only benefit the progress of the learner but the organization itself as well.
Learning styles can be broken down and dissected by various models and schools of thought. Some of the more familiar and commonly used being Fleming’s VARK Model and the Myers Briggs Type Indicator. It is essential for the instructor/trainer to have an understanding of these various models in order to assess how each individual learner processes stimuli and information.
Generally learners process information in the following categories: Visual, Aural/Auditory, Read/Write, Kinesthetic/Tactile and Multimodal. Assessment of learning styles can be performed in various ways. David A. Kolb’s learning model uses an assessment method known as Learning Style Inventory [LSI: Sample], while other popular methods are usually in the form of a questionnaire, test or quiz.
Once learning styles have been assessed, it is important to adapt the classroom/learning environment to suit the learners’ needs, so that each individual is able to fully benefit from the learning experience. E-Learning is an ideal method of adaptation because it is a platform which facilitates a ‘blended’ learning experience for all types of learning styles. Learners will benefit from access to audio, video, written text and diagrams as well as progress assessments as they move forward throughout the course.
The use of interactive blended mediums within e-Learning allow for maximum retention for all styles of learners. This in turn facilitates a timely and cost effective method of delivery for organizations needing to train and re-skill their new and current workforce efficiently. Instructors/trainers as well as the learners themselves are greatly empowered by such a strong tool.
