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Different Strokes for Different Folks: (Learning Styles)

Deborah Jeter

As an artist, I am continually faced with the fact that I simply DO NOT process information like the majority. In fact, I have sometimes thought that perhaps my approach to problem solving and life, in general, has been dyslexic! If there is such a thing as dyslexic living, then I have it. Some of us learn best with classical music in the background. Others of us need "library" silence. For the students that are on the hyper side, then perhaps lying in the floor with a favorite pillow would be most conducive to their learning needs, but whatever the style, we're benefited by utilizing our ideal requirements for optimal learning.

If you are interested in finding out what YOUR learning style is, then continue reading and I'll point you to a couple of sites that could reveal some helpful information.

Mind Tools offers shareware called Life Plan. This program will help you to set goals and create practical steps in acquiring these goals. This could be a very helpful program for some, but as for me, I'm not motivated by goal setting or lists. I'm motivated by deadlines and hysteria. :-)

Have a big decision that you need to make, such as, whether or not you should return to teaching in the fall or buy that sailboat and skip the teaching. "Mind Tools" will give you some ideas to help you sift through the emotions and approach things logically. Tools offered are "How to make a Decision Tree", tips for "Brainstorming", "Reductionism", "SWOT Analysis", which is, analyzing your Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats and lots more.

Another good site is West Ed Learning Styles.

The learning styles are as follows: (Go to the site to find out what your optimal learning needs are.)

Visual-Spatial - think in terms of physical space, as do architects and sailors. Very aware of their environments. They like to draw, do jigsaw puzzles, read maps, daydream.

Bodily-kinesthetic - use the body effectively, like a dancer or a surgeon. Keen sense of body awareness. They like movement, making things, touching. They communicate well through body language.

Musical - show sensitivity to rhythm and sound. They love music, but they are also sensitive to sounds in their environments. They may study better with music in the background.

Interpersonal - understanding, interacting with others. These students learn through interaction. They have many friends, empathy for others, street smarts.

Intrapersonal - understanding one's own interests, goals. These learners tend to shy away from others. They're in tune with their inner feelings; they