Not everyone learns in the same way. Below is something that I wish I knew about when I was a student. There are three kinds of learning styles: visual (learn through seeing), kinesthetic/tactile (learn through doing/touching), and auditory (learn through hearing). I have since figured out the ways that help me learn, and I hope that this information helps you too.
If you are a visual learner like me you will probably do best to sit in the front row or a place where you can see the teacher easily. You might want to make drawings to help you remember important information. Use color when writing things down and highlighters. Visual learners make up about 65% of the population.
For instance, if you have a science test it might help to make flash cards. However, draw a picture of the definition next to the words. This way when it comes time for the test you will remember what your flash card looked like and what was written on it.
Kinesthetic/tactile learners do best if they can play with what they are trying to learn. So if you are studying about the solar system it might help you to make a model of it. Or if you are studying about the different bones in the body it might help to touch the part of your body while you name it. For example, say "femur" while touching your thigh. Reading out loud and playing games might also help you learn. Kinaesthetic learners make up around 5% of the population.
Auditory learners learn best by listening. Reading out loud can help, or at least try to hear the characters voice inside your head when you read. Books on tape are also useful learning devices. Another strategy is to explain what you just read or learned to another person. Auditory learners make up about 30% of the population.
Here are some links to help you find which learning style is most like you.
Find your learning style
An Explanation
In addition, Howard Gardner says that there are
eight multiple intelligences:
linguistic,
logical/mathematical,
musical,
visual/spatial, kinesthetic,
interpersonal (a people person),
intrapersonal (non-people person), and
naturalistic
(relating to nature). I'm mostly linguistic, spatial, interpersonal and musical. I found a really great site that gives a free online test for adults, teenagers, and children. It's a lot of fun and it might help you understand how you learn a little better.
I'm sorry to sound like a textbook, but I feel very strongly about helping people realize their strengths when it comes to education.
