Want to succeed in online school? The secret lies in understanding how you learn best. This guide will walk you through the process of discovering your learning style and show you exactly how to use that knowledge to thrive in an online learning environment.
Step 1: Evaluate Your Current Learning Habits
Start by observing how you naturally approach learning new information. Think about your most recent successful learning experience. What made it work so well? Did you gravitate toward watching videos, listening to explanations, or trying things hands-on?
If you are unsure, try this quick self-assessment: The next time you need to learn something new, attempt to learn it in three different ways. First, watch a video about it. Then, listen to someone explain it. Finally, try doing it yourself. Which method helped you understand and remember the information best?
Step 2: Understand the Three Main Learning Styles
- Visual learners absorb information best through sight. You might be a visual learner if you frequently sketch concepts while studying, prefer watching demonstrations over listening to explanations, or find yourself remembering where information appears on a page.
- Auditory learners process information through sound. If you retain information better after discussing it with others, often remember song lyrics easily, or find yourself talking through problems out loud, you likely have an auditory learning style.
- Kinesthetic learners understand through physical engagement. You might be a kinesthetic learner if you prefer hands-on activities, often use gestures while speaking, or find it easier to learn while moving around.
Step 3: Apply Your Learning Style to Online School
- For Visual Learners: Transform your online learning space into a visual haven. Record your screen during important lessons, create mind maps of complex topics, and use digital annotation tools to mark up your reading materials. Request visual aids from your teachers when concepts seem unclear.
- For Auditory Learners: Make sound your ally in online learning. Record class discussions for later review, participate actively in virtual discussions, and try explaining concepts to family members. Consider using text-to-speech software for reading assignments and record yourself summarizing key points after each lesson.
- For Kinesthetic Learners: Turn passive online learning into an active experience. Stand or walk while watching lectures, create physical models of concepts you're studying, and use interactive online simulations whenever possible. Take frequent breaks to move around, and try teaching concepts to others using physical demonstrations.
Step 4: Adjust Your Online Learning Environment
Now that you know your learning style, customize your study space accordingly. Online school gives you the freedom to customize your learning space into a supportive environment.
- Visual learners should eliminate visual distractions and keep essential reference materials within sight.
- Auditory learners need a quiet space with good acoustics and quality headphones.
- Kinesthetic learners benefit from a space that allows movement and hands-on manipulation of study materials.
Step 5: Develop Learning Style Specific Study Strategies
- Visual learners should convert text-heavy materials into visual resources such as diagrams, flowcharts, or timelines. You can also take screenshots of important information and organize digital notes with color coding and create visual hierarchies.
- Auditory learners can record themselves reading their notes and listen during review sessions. You can also join or create virtual study groups where you can discuss concepts with classmates. We also recommend using mnemonic devices and rhythm to memorize important information.
- Kinesthetic learners should incorporate movement into study sessions. Create physical flashcards, act out historical events, or use building blocks to represent mathematical concepts. Take advantage of virtual science labs and interactive learning tools.
Step 6: Monitor and Adjust Your Approach
Track your progress. Note which strategies work best for different subjects and types of assignments. Be prepared to adjust your methods as needed—some concepts and topics might require a blend of different learning styles.
Step 7: Communicate with Your Teachers
Share your learning style preferences with your teachers. Many online learning platforms offer multiple ways to access information, and your teachers can help you find resources that match your learning style.
Ready to Transform Your Online Learning Experience?
Understanding and applying your learning style is the first step toward excelling in online school. Whether you’re looking for a more flexible schedule, a personalized learning plan, or a supportive online community, ICON School is ready to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your child thrive in an online learning environment.
