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In 1987, Neil Fleming, a teacher from New Zealand, popularized the VARK theory of learning styles (V = Visual, A = Aural, R = Read/Write, and K = Kinesthetic). The 16-question inventory he developed was designed for students, instructors, and employers. A fifth result, multimodal, was added because around 60% of people have multiple preferences when it comes to how they learn new information.
Visual
Visual learners prefer charts, maps, diagrams, and images. They learn best by seeing information presented in a visual way.
Aural
Aural, or auditory, learners prefer hearing information out loud. They learn best with discussions, oral presentations, and question-and-answer sessions.
Read/Write
Often referred to as a verbal style, read/write learners prefer to see content in written form. They prefer books, handouts, manuals, and other text-based materials.
Kinesthetic
Kinesthetic learners prefer hands-on experience. They do best when they can complete a task or activity, rather than just seeing, hearing, or reading about it.
Since the original VARK model was created, 4 other popular learning styles have emerged—logical, social, solo, and natural. These are often thought of as secondary learning styles, as most of them refer more to learning environments than the way we perceive information.
Logical
Logical learners use logic and analytics to find patterns, connections, causes, and results in provided information. They have strong problem-solving skills.
Social
Social learners do best in group settings. Working with their peers, having discussions, and even role-playing help these learners to understand new information.
Solo
Solo learners do best on their own. They prefer independent work rather than group activities.
Natural
Natural learners often find connections between the material they’re studying and the natural world. They may even learn best when outdoors in a natural environment.
While the VARK learning styles became widely used after Fleming published his theory, many people question its validity. Some of the criticisms include that the best way to learn something may depend on what is being learned and who is teaching it, among other factors. Furthermore, studies have shown that there is no correlation between study strategies that align with a student’s learning style and their course outcome (or grade). Some psychologists and researchers even claim that there are upwards of 170 learning styles, so limiting instruction to 4 or even 8 strategies may not benefit all types of learners.
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