Learning styles are approaches to learning, which involve specific methods for each individual learner. Discuss different learning strategies that allow individuals to learn best.

Assignment Brief

TASK DESCRIPTION – An essay on:

Assessment 1 - Individual essay (1000 words maximum)

Read the article below and do further research to answer the questions that follow:

Learning styles are various approaches or ways of learning. They involve educating methods particular to an individual that are presumed to allow that individual to learn best. Most people prefer an identifiable method of interacting with, taking in, and processing stimuli or information. Based on this concept, the idea of individualized "learning styles" originated in the 1970s, and acquired enormous popularity (Pashler, McDaniel, Rohrer, and Bjork, 2009). Today the traditional belief, that learning differences arise from different levels of intelligence and cognitive abilities has been changed and it is verified that learning differences arise from intelligence differences in addition to other factors such as personality characteristics, task difficulty, and learning styles (Emamepur & Shams, 2007; Yilmaz & Orhan, 2010).

According to James and Gardner (1995) learning styles are the conditions that enable learners to perceive, to process, to store, and recall the learning contents. Peirce (2000) believes that learning style is the method that people prefer over other methods in learning. It is necessary that teachers, school managers and other members of instructional teams take into account the different learning styles of students. Research results revealed that paying attention to the individual differences and learning characteristics of learners by teachers and others of instructional teams had an important role in improving the quality of learning and increasing the academic achievement of students (Safe, 2008; Tella & Adeniyi, 2009).

Additionally, researchers indicate that goal setting is essential for achievement in the learning process (Anderman, 2011). Goal setting encourages students’ self-improvement in different aspects of learning as it plays an essential component of decision making which relates to the mental processes that result in the selection of appropriate actions to make accomplishments. Therefore, in order to promote learning among students and facilitate achievement of goals, it is essential for the students to understand the concepts of goal setting theory for attaining both academic and professional success.

Excerpts adopted from:

Jahanbakhsh, R. (2012) Learning styles and academic achievement: a case study of Iranian high school girls’ students. Social and Behavioural Sciences Vol. 51, pp. 1030 – 1034

Zainudin Abu Bakar, Lee Mei Yun, Ng Siew Keow, Tan Hui Li. (2014). Goal-Setting Learning Principles. Journal of Education and Learning. Vol.8 (1) pp. 41-50.

Questions:

1. Learning styles are approaches to learning, which involve specific methods for each individual learner. Discuss different learning strategies that allow individuals to learn best.
2. Develop a study plan that includes short term and long term goals that can help students to attain both academic and professional success.

This assessment addresses the following learning outcomes:

LO1: Set short term and long range goals and to design an appropriate plan of study

LO3: Acquire knowledge of learning strategies and techniques to improve memory retention and understanding how people learn

Assignment Brief

Learning Strategies and Goal Setting for Academic and Professional Success

Introduction

Learning is a dynamic and individualised process shaped by a person’s cognitive abilities, personality traits, and preferred learning style. According to James and Gardner (1995), learning styles define how individuals perceive, process, and retain information. This essay explores various learning strategies tailored to individual styles and develops a practical study plan incorporating short- and long-term goals for both academic and professional success.

Different Learning Strategies for Effective Learning

Learning strategies are specific approaches or techniques used by learners to enhance the acquisition, retention, and application of knowledge. These strategies are often aligned with individual learning styles, which influence how people best receive and process information. Key types of learning strategies include:

1. Visual Learning Strategies

Visual learners understand information better when it is presented through images, diagrams, charts, or mind maps. Strategies for visual learners include:

• Using colour-coded notes and flashcards

• Watching instructional videos

• Creating visual organisers and concept maps

2. Auditory Learning Strategies

Auditory learners absorb information effectively through listening and speaking. Useful strategies include:

• Participating in group discussions

• Listening to audio lectures or recordings

• Reading aloud or teaching others

3. Kinesthetic Learning Strategies

Kinesthetic learners prefer a hands-on approach and learn best by doing. Strategies for them include:

• Engaging in experiments and role-play

• Building models or using physical tools

• Taking breaks and incorporating movement into study sessions

4. Reading/Writing Strategies

Some learners retain information more efficiently through reading and writing activities. Strategies include:

• Taking detailed notes during lectures

• Writing summaries and reflections

• Using lists, glossaries, and handouts

Research by Safe (2008) and Tella & Adeniyi (2009) confirms that addressing individual learning differences through such strategies can significantly enhance academic performance. Teachers who tailor their instruction to suit various learning styles foster deeper understanding and improved learner outcomes.

Study Plan with Short-Term and Long-Term Goals

Goal setting plays a vital role in academic achievement and self-regulated learning. Anderman (2011) emphasises the significance of goal setting as it motivates learners, aids decision-making, and enhances self-improvement. A well-structured study plan can help students align their efforts with their academic and career aspirations.

Short-Term Goals (0–6 months)