When it comes to comprehending information, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Learners learn in different styles, such as visual, auditory, read/write, and kinesthetic. How would you know if you are a visual learner or not? If you learn and remember best by the picture medium and comprehend information by sight, there is a good chance you are a visual learner.
In this article, we will discuss visual learners’ characteristics and share some tips for visual learners, so keep reading if you want to learn more about this topic.
Types of Learners
When grasping information, students employ different methods based on what suits them best. At the core, the most popular learning style classifications are based on the VARK theory. According to this theory, there are four types of learners: visual, auditory, reading-and-writing, and kinesthetic.
Auditory learners learn through hearing and listening. Students using this method comprehend and remember what they hear more quickly.
Reading and writing is another method of learning during which students mainly prefer to read and write in order to learn more effectively.
Kinesthetic learning means learning through practice. These types of learners can read or listen to instructions, but deep understanding occurs via the process of doing. A simple example would be learning how to ride a bike.
Now, if you are left wondering, “What are the strengths of visual learning?” keep reading; we will answer all your questions below.
What Is Visual Learning?
Just as the name suggests, visual learning occurs through interaction with the information presented in the form of visual imagery, such as:
- Photos
- Graphs
- Infographics, and so on
Visual learners enjoy drawing, doodling, and coloring pictures in their early stages. They have strong imaginations and can be pretty creative.
While in class, they may appear to be paying less attention because they are mentally visualizing what is being taught, which helps them learn and memorize new information.
Characteristics of Visual Learners
Visual learners have characteristics that distinguish them from other types of learners. They are specifically known to be highly skilled at observing their surroundings, have strong memory, are quick learners, and more.
Great observers
Visual learners take in a great deal of information about the environment that others could miss. They are focused on images, so these learners are extremely alert and notice qualities that others do not, and they are also quick to pick up on details.
Quicker learning process
Because it generates visuals and influences students’ cognitive abilities, visual learning makes it easier for many to absorb information. Usually, we can process pictures considerably more quickly than text. That’s because when processing words, the brain must decode elements sequentially, which adds to the time and effort we put in.
Stronger memory through visuals
Through images, new information and knowledge can effectively be stored in our long-term memory. Short-term memory processes words and can hold only bits of information. On the other hand, images are processed directly by our long-term memory, where they are permanently carved.
Visual learners are often good at arts
Visual learners are more prone to developing artistic skills than other types of learners. That happens mainly as a result of constant exposure to imagery. Additionally, visual learners tend to pursue art as a creative outlet or career choice.
Benefits of Visual Learning
Sure, using illustrations for learning sounds appealing to everyone, but how effective is it in practice? Well, there are far more benefits to it than we think. It not only helps retain information quicker but also can make learning more fun. Additionally, this style is practical and can be easily integrated into your study sessions.
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Better quality learning
Once you understand the importance of identifying your learning style and how it impacts the learning process, you can start to improve the overall quality of your learning environment and process.
Powerful images and visual metaphors create powerful impressions and lasting memories in learners. Written concepts are not always the best way out. Let’s take the example of a body language lesson. Pictures can more easily be linked to the context, creating better quality in learning the lesson about body language and making the connection between different stances far more comprehensive. This would make the learning process faster and easier to grasp.
Cost-effective learning
Visual learning is also very cheap. Most of the strategies followed in this learning style entail little to no cost, but even if it does, it will pay off in the end.
Some tools that students utilize in the process of visual learning that require little to no money at all are:
- PowerPoint slides with notes
- Highlighting key passages
- Doodles and flowcharts
- Creating flashcards
Better recollection of memories
You can often encounter students with their eyes closed during exams or when thinking of an answer. They are trying to think of something related to the solution, whether something they have highlighted or a drawing near it. And most of the time, visual learners are more likely to succeed in finding the correct answer.
Learning becomes fun
Most students will have to learn to adapt during their education. Some subjects will be more difficult to master, and some teachers will use learning methods that some students do not prefer. However, if you are the type of student who takes the initiative and is ready to explore learning styles, you will be well-positioned to succeed in your education.
Learning cannot always be fun. It can get boring at times. However, visual learners experience less dull studying moments. Using slides with pictures of different colors and staring at numerous objects usually makes lectures and revising sessions more exciting.
The Bottom Line
Visual learning is a method in which students prefer learning and communicating ideas and thoughts through visuals, graphics, colors, and maps. Visual learners want the information to be seen in order to learn it effectively.
Try new things, explore and discover different learning styles and strategies until you find what works best. Keep in mind that you should not be limited by the fact that you are a visual learner. Knowing your best method will rather help you identify techniques to understand concepts easily.
