How do you stay informed about learning preferences?

1 Identify common learning styles

One of the first steps to staying informed about learning preferences is to identify the common learning styles that exist among your staff. Learning styles are the ways that people process and understand information, such as visual, auditory, kinesthetic, or verbal. You can use various tools and surveys, such as the VARK questionnaire, to determine the dominant learning style of each employee and group them accordingly. This can help you design and deliver training programs that match their preferred mode of learning.

2 Observe and communicate

Another way to stay informed about learning preferences is to observe and communicate with your staff regularly. By paying attention to their behavior, feedback, and performance, you can get a sense of what works and what doesn't for them. For example, you can notice if they respond better to demonstrations, discussions, or exercises, or if they need more or less guidance and support. You can also ask them directly about their learning preferences and expectations, and encourage them to share their opinions and suggestions. This can help you build rapport and trust with your staff and tailor your training to their needs and goals.

3 Experiment and evaluate

A third way to stay informed about learning preferences is to experiment and evaluate different methods and techniques. Learning preferences are not fixed or static; they can change over time and vary depending on the context and content. Therefore, you should not rely on one single approach or assume that what worked before will work again. Instead, you should try out different formats, media, and activities, and measure their effectiveness and impact. You can use tools such as quizzes, surveys, or feedback forms to collect data and feedback from your staff and analyze the results. This can help you identify what works best for each situation and group, and make adjustments accordingly.

4 Keep learning and updating

A final way to stay informed about learning preferences is to keep learning and updating yourself on the latest trends and research in the field. Learning preferences are influenced by many factors, such as personality, culture, motivation, and technology. Therefore, you should stay abreast of the current developments and best practices in staff development and adult learning. You can do this by reading books, articles, blogs, or podcasts, attending webinars, courses, or workshops, or joining professional networks or communities. This can help you expand your knowledge and skills, and discover new ideas and strategies to enhance your training programs.

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?