Learning Styles of My Coworkers

The visual learner retains graphs, pictures and diagrams.

To determine the learning style of a coworker, think about how he prefers learning new information in general. Does he like to learn alone, through participation, set his own objectives or just listen? There are many learning styles. By working with the strength and ability of each coworker's preferred style, you maximize a coworker's learning capacity and his learning process becomes enjoyable and is satisfied for greater achievement in the workplace.

Solitary

A coworker who is a solitary or "intra-personal learner" thinks independently. She likes to spend time alone when she is learning. She makes plans, sets goals and will take the time to understand your theories and ideas before coming back to you with a decision. She tends to dwell on points and ideas and can miss other important details you are communicating as a result. Your perspective as a coworker is important to her. She is interested in your opinion.

Learning by Participation

The "kinesthetic learner" jumps in and takes action. It's not that your meetings are boring, he has a hard time sitting still; he needs to be involved. Instead of having him sit back and listen, you could have him take notes because he needs to engage his hands to keep him busy. He is skilled at hand-eye coordination and would be a willing participant for demonstrations or role-playing.

Self-Directed Learning

Your coworker who is a "self-directed learner" initiates her own learning. She is a the type of coworker who identifies what she wants to be trained on and how, carrying out her own learning goals and objectives. She can adapt to today's rapidly changing workforce because she approaches the workplace as a continual motivational learning environment. Supervisors and employees who are self-directed learners can apply and accomplish continuous productivity and learning.

Auditory and Visual Learners

Your coworker, as an "auditory learner," pays attention to your tone of voice, volume and rhythm of speed. He listens well and learns by repeating things you have said, back to you as if he is "replaying a tape" in his mind. Your information will have a stronger impact on him if it is spoken rather than in writing. Talking and having a discussion is a great tool for an auditory learner. If you have pictures, diagrams and graphs, your coworkers who are visual learners will find it beneficial.

References

• knol: Learning Styles Self-Assessment
• Studying Style: Tactile-Kinesthetic Learners
• Free Management Library: Strong Value of Self-Directed Learning in the Workplace

Resources

• "Learning Unlimited"; Alistair Rylatt: 2001
• "The SAGE Handbook of Workplace Learning"; Margaret Malloch; 2010