How can you develop your skills to match different learning styles?

1 Identify the learning styles

The first step is to identify the learning styles of your mentees. You can do this by observing how they respond to different types of information and feedback, asking them about their preferred methods of learning, or using a questionnaire or assessment tool. There are many models and frameworks that describe different learning styles, but one of the most common and widely used is the VARK model, which stands for Visual, Aural, Read/Write, and Kinesthetic. Each of these categories represents a preference for learning through seeing, hearing, reading/writing, or doing.

2 Use multiple modes of communication

Once you know the learning styles of your mentees, you can use multiple modes of communication to deliver your messages and instructions. For example, if you have a visual learner, you can use diagrams, charts, videos, or images to illustrate your points. If you have an aural learner, you can use podcasts, audio recordings, or verbal explanations to convey your ideas. If you have a read/write learner, you can use text, notes, articles, or reports to provide information. And if you have a kinesthetic learner, you can use hands-on activities, simulations, demonstrations, or exercises to help them learn.

3 Adjust your feedback and evaluation

Another way to match different learning styles is to adjust your feedback and evaluation methods. For example, if you have a visual learner, you can use rubrics, graphs, or scores to show their progress and areas for improvement. If you have an aural learner, you can use oral feedback, discussions, or peer reviews to give them constructive criticism and praise. If you have a read/write learner, you can use written feedback, comments, or summaries to highlight their strengths and weaknesses. And if you have a kinesthetic learner, you can use practice tests, quizzes, or projects to assess their learning outcomes.

4 Encourage self-directed learning

Finally, you can match different learning styles by encouraging your mentees to take charge of their own learning and explore their interests and goals. You can do this by helping them set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) objectives, providing them with resources and tools that suit their learning styles, and supporting them to reflect on their learning process and achievements. You can also challenge them to try new ways of learning and expose them to different perspectives and experiences.

Matching different learning styles is not only beneficial for your mentees, but also for you as a mentor. It can help you improve your communication, creativity, and empathy skills, as well as deepen your relationship with your mentees. By developing your skills to match different learning styles, you can become a more effective and versatile mentor.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?