As a facilitator, you will want to recognize the five different learning styles and address all the learners’ needs. A quick way to tentatively identify these styles is through the learners’ choices of words and behaviors. Table 3–2 provides a brief summary of verbal cues and learner behavior to help you recognize these styles.
Role | Verbal Cue | Learner Behavior |
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Achiever | Tells, does little asking Blunt, to the point Asks for clear directions Asks for clear, concise answers Asks for application to the job | Does lots of talking Takes charge, likes to be leader Follows the participant guide, in order Demonstrates little patience for non-task-related activities |
Evaluator | Asks for data, facts, sources Focused comments on the topic Little personal sharing Wants the details | Task oriented Follows directions Challenges others’ expertise Develops steps to accomplish activities |
Networker | Asks many questions Does little telling Vocalizes support for others’ opinions Seeks attention and feedback | Engages in effective listening Seeks collaboration and consensus Reserves personal opinions Avoids conflict Develops close relationships Builds trust |
Socializer | Shares experiences Tells stories Digresses and gets off the subject Readily expresses personal opinion Talks a lot Uses language of persuasion | Makes quick, spontaneous decisions without all the information Gets multiple perspectives Has fun Loves group activities and discussions |
Observer | Likes to conceptualize, “what if” discussions Asks questions or makes comments off the direct subject Makes “what about this” statements Makes future application to discussions | Provides several alternatives to a problem or situation Easily gets off the subject Wants fuller discussion on the idea Not concerned with the concrete application of the ideas |
Reprinted with permission from Performance Advantage Group, 2003.
Now that you know about learner preferences for taking in content and learner styles for processing content, you, as a facilitator, will want to use both sets of information in making a conscious decision regarding meeting the needs of your learners. Table 3–3 integrates learning preferences and styles with your learning activity choices.
Learning Activity | Visual Preference | Auditory Preference | Kinesthetic Preference | Achiever Style | Evaluator Style | Networker Style | Socializer Style | Observer Style |
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Lecture |
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Handouts |
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Group Discussion |
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Role Play |
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Group Work at Flipchart |
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Case Study |
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Hands-on Practice |
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Note Taking |
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Games |
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Small Group Work |
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Activity Debriefing |
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Action Planning |
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Brainstorming |
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[1]If they observe and don’t participate in the action
[2]If they have a leadership role
[3]If opportunity is given to comment on observations during activity |
Reprinted with permission from Deb Tobey LLC, 2003.