Understanding Your Learning Preferences

Not long ago, I wrote about the importance of diversifying your learning activities. In this article, I want to expand on that topic by helping you explore your own unique learning preferences.

Every brain is different. So, it’s only natural that some learning activities will be more suited to your cognitive style than others. Some programs and resources will be better at holding your attention, just as some experiences will feel more enriching and satisfying. At the same time, we all have certain things that don’t work for us—they leave us feeling bored or uninspired.

It’s up to each of us to understand our own individual preferences and invest in the kind of learning that truly supports our development needs.

Most people are a blend of different styles, and your preferences may change depending on the situation. To help you make the most of your professional development consider the following questions.

How Do I Best Process and Retain Information?

Everyone absorbs information in different ways. Reflect on which of the following methods resonates most for you:

• Visual Learning (Learn by Seeing): You like charts, illustrations, diagrams, infographics, and video tutorials.
• Auditory Learning (Learn by Hearing): You like podcasts, audio books, lectures, and conversations.
• Kinesthetic Learning (Learn by Doing): You like engaging in hands-on activities like in workshops, simulations, role play scenarios, and interactive projects.
• Reading/Writing Preference: You like reading articles, books, and detailed guides, as well as taking notes and writing summaries to reinforce your learning.

With any of these methods, you may need additional support like assistive technologies or extra time to process information. Acknowledging these needs is a key part of optimizing your learning process.

What is My Ideal Learning Environment?

Environment plays a significant role in how we learn. Think about the conditions that allow you to concentrate and feel motivated.

• In-Person vs. Virtual: Do you prefer the energy of a classroom or the flexibility of online learning? In-person sessions offer networking and real-time interaction, while virtual training provides convenience and might draw a global participant group.
• Live vs. Self-Paced/On-Demand: Do you like to have a specific day and time scheduled for learning, or do you prefer to do it at your own pace and convenience? For some people, live training helps to prioritize the activity while on-demand can be easily put off for later.
• Individual vs. Collaborative: Do you learn best on your own or in a group? Some professionals prefer solo study for deep focus, while others gain more from collaborative settings like study groups or interactive sessions, where the exchange of ideas enhances understanding.

For those who experience learning difficulties or neurodivergence, finding an environment that minimizes distractions and aligns with your sensory needs can be particularly important. Consider settings that offer quiet spaces, structured routines, or supportive group dynamics, depending on what works best for you.

What is my Preferred Level of Detail?

The depth and duration of content can also influence how effectively we learn. Consider which of the following is right for you:

• Short-Form Content: You enjoy short, focused microlearning resources like brief video tutorials and list-oriented articles. These can be ideal when all you need is a superficial overview of a topic or a quick refresher. This approach works well when you need a fast way to grasp just the key points.
• Long-Form Content: You enjoy in-depth courses, comprehensive textbooks, and detailed research papers that provide a thorough exploration of topics. These resources are ideal for those who want to invest time and attention into deep-dive study of an important topic.

For some, especially those who are neurodivergent, processing detailed information might require a slower pace or repeated exposure. Don’t hesitate to seek accommodations or adjust your learning schedule to fit your personal rhythm.

It’s worthwhile noting that preferences won’t always align with needs. There may be times when you need  to participate in a certain type of learning activity for the sake of your career even though it doesn’t fully match your personal preferences. If you choose to obtain a professional certification, for example, you may have to adapt to the materials and activities provided.

However, most modern training programs understand that learners have diverse needs and offer multiple modalities or flexible structures to accommodate different styles. As you explore opportunities, keep these questions in mind and stay open to experimentation. By tuning into your learning preferences, you can gain more from each professional development experience.

Learning is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. As adults, we get to choose what works best for us. Self-awareness will help you make better choices and set you up for long-term professional success.

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