Everyone Learns Differently – Does Your Instructional Design Take the Differences into Account?

3 robot-like heads with gears for brains

We are all wired differently and so we all learn differently. This is what instructional design consulting experts have to take into account as they create their training programs. In order to maximize effectiveness, programs need to effectively address a variety of learning styles and preferences.

What we are now beginning to understand from recent studies, however, is that, beyond our natural intellect and inherited ability, our personalities have a great influence on how well we learn and how we prefer to learn. It stands to reason, then, that knowing the personal style of the learner can help optimize learning efficiency and retention.

  • Superficial Learners are not very open to new experiences. They prefer to learn the basics and then move on. They are apt to be pessimistic and sensitive. Their concern for results is not so much to succeed as it is not to fail.  Instructional designers looking to help them learn new behaviors must be able to push them slightly out of their comfort zone while creating confidence that they will succeed.
  • In-depth Learners are driven by real curiosity. Their motivation comes from within and they are apt to get so involved in the learning experience that they are oblivious to what is going on around them. They are universally curious rather than focused on only one or two topics.  Instructional designers must create enough systemic intrigue to get the best out of them.
  • Result-oriented Learners have a practical, strategic approach to learning. They learn best with clearly defined learning goals. Instructional designers should use tests and competitions that provide clear parameters about success and failure.

To appeal to all three types, establish clear learning goals, introduce the basics and then allow for more detailed exploration for the deep learners in your audience.

Learn more at: http://www.lsaglobal.com/instructional-design-consulting-train-the-trainer/

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