Is it important to understand the participant learning styles?

The term “learning styles” speaks to the understanding that every participant learns differently. It is well known that people have different leaning styles that work best for them. The best approach for an instructor to take is to address a variety of learning styles with his training plan. It is also helpful to encourage participants to understand their preferred learning style. An individual’s learning style refers to the preferential way in which the participant absorbs processes, comprehends and retains information. For example, when learning how to build a clock, some students understand the process by following verbal instructions while others have to physically manipulate the clock themselves. This notion of individualized learning styles has gained widespread recognition. It is important for trainers to understand the differences in their participants’ learning styles so that they can implement best practice strategies into their daily activities, curriculum and assessments. Individual learning styles depend on cognitive, emotional and environmental factors as well as one’s prior experience.