Download pdf - Communication between Mr. Raymond Andrew Noe, Phd writer of “Employee Training and Development” and Mr. Zulfiqar Maqbool, PHR management student at Hamdard University

1 Learning Styles by Zulfiqar Maqbool, PHR

Learning Styles

Communication between Mr. Raymond Andrew Noe, Phd writer of “Employee Training and Development” and

Mr. Zulfiqar Maqbool, PHR management student at Hamdard University.

Conclusion of the communication between two are as follows. As per chapter 4 of Employee Training and Development there are four learning styles. But before we go into that lets take the things from start.

Training Design Process

4th STEP of Training Design Process

Ensuring Transfer of Training

Human that is us receives, process and reacts to information in different ways. Every human being has their A Model of Human Information Processing own filters. Their experiences, relationships, friends, surroundings and environment play a crucial role in shaping these behavior. In this book writer discuss the part of “Response Generators” by defining the four styles of learning.

Training Design Process

You have to conduct TNA to establish the need. Organization should be made prepared in order to receive training. An environment of learning should be created. Now you can plan how to transfer the training.


1. Accommodators - (Concrete experience/Active experimenter)

2. Assimilator - (Abstract conceptualization/ Reflective observer)

3. Convergers - (Abstract conceptualization/Active experimenter)

4. Divergers - (Reflective observer/Concrete Experience)

Little Brief intro about them. David Kolb's model This model is called David A. Kolb learning styles model, it is based on the Experiential Learning Theory, as explained in his book Experiential Learning: Experience as the source of learning and development (1984). The ELT model outlines two related approaches toward grasping experience: Concrete Experience and Abstract Conceptualization, as well as two related approaches toward transforming experience: Reflective Observation and Active Experimentation. According to Kolb’s model, the ideal learning process engages all four of these modes in response to situational demands.

1. Concrete experience: being involved in a new experience

2. Reflective observation: watching others or developing observations about one’s own experience

3. Abstract conceptualization: creating theories to explain observations

4. Active experimentation: using theories to solve problems, make decisions

BEFORE RESPONSE OR PERSONAL FILTERS (Kolb Learning Styles)

There is Step 2 and 3 of Human Information Processing

What is the best way to transfer information for maximum human absorption?

The Multiple Intelligences concepts and VAK (or VARK or VACT) learning styles models offer relatively simple and accessible methods to understand and explain people's preferred ways to learn and develop. Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligence Theory was first published in Howard Gardner's book, Frames Of Mind (1983), and quickly became established as a classical model by which to understand and teach many aspects of human intelligence, learning style, personality and behavior - in education and industry.

This can also be compiled in one word,

Adult Learning process called

“Andagogy”.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_A._Kolb


The following are the 3 styles of learning

Intelligence type

Description Typical roles Related tasks,

activities or tests

Preferred learning

style clues

1 Linguistic/ Auditory

words and language, written and spoken;

retention, interpretation and explanation of ideas

and information via language, understands relationship between communication and

meaning

writers, lawyers, journalists, speakers, trainers, copy-writers,

english teachers, poets, editors, linguists,

translators, PR consultants, media

consultants, TV and radio presenters, voice-over

artistes

write a set of instructions; speak on a subject; edit a

written piece or work; write a

speech; commentate on an

event; apply positive or negative 'spin' to

a story

words and language

4 Bodily-

Kinesthetic

body movement control, manual

dexterity, physical agility and balance; eye and

body coordination

dancers, demonstrators, actors, athletes, divers, sports-people, soldiers,

fire-fighters, PTI's, performance artistes;

ergonomists, osteopaths, fishermen, drivers, crafts-people; gardeners, chefs, acupuncturists, healers,

adventurers

juggle; demonstrate a sports technique;

flip a beer-mat; create a mime to

explain something; toss a pancake; fly a

kite; coach workplace posture, assess work-station

ergonomics

physical experience

and movement, touch and

feel

5 Spatial-Visual

visual and spatial perception;

interpretation and creation of visual images; pictorial imagination and

expression; understands relationship between images and meanings,

and between space and effect

artists, designers, cartoonists, story-

boarders, architects, photographers, sculptors,

town-planners, visionaries, inventors,

engineers, cosmetics and beauty consultants

design a costume; interpret a painting;

create a room layout; create a corporate logo;

design a building; pack a suitcase or the boot of a car

pictures, shapes,

images, 3D space

Roles and intrapersonal intelligence: Given that a 'role' tends to imply external style/skills, engagement, etc., the intrapersonal ability is less


Mr. Raymond A Noe says

in his reply “One set of

learning styles (on page

152 of the text) is based

on how individuals solve

problems. The learning

style referred to in the

SPHR study guide deals

with how learners prefer

to receive instruction

(movement, seeing it,

hearing it)”.

Merger of 2 styles (Kolb + Howard Learning Styles)

In Conversation with Mr. Raymond. He and I both agreed the we can find Kolb learning styles present as a sub group in Mr. Howard learning preferences.

My question with Mr. Raymond was; “On your fifth addition in Chapter No. 4: Learning theories and Program Design at page number 152; You are stating there are Four types of learning Styles. 1. Diverger 2. Assimilator 3. converger 4. Accomodator In an another book ; PHR/SPHR Study Guide by Anne M. Bogardus; In Module 4; Human Resource Development, She is stating there are three type of Learning Style; 1. Visual Learners 2. Auditory Learners 3. Kinesthetic Learners.

My Question is as follows; What are the difference between these 2 styles?” Mr. Raymond response was; “One set of learning styles (on page 152 of the text) is based on how individuals solve problems. The learning style referred to in the SPHR study guide deals with how learners prefer to receive instruction (movement, seeing it, hearing it)”. Here “One set of learning styles (on page 152 of the text)” is referred to the Kolb Four Learning Style. And “The learning style referred to in the SPHR study guide” is referring to three learning styles of Mr. Howard My second Question was; “To better understand, if I say that, the below mentioned three "learning preferences", can also have the four "problem solving individuals" in them as sub-groups. Will this somehow be accurate”. Mr. Raymond answer was; “Yes, that would be accurate. Ray”


In light of the above communication the following graph is developed.

Kolb+Howard Combined Learning Styles

With this diagram I am proposing that in any training sessions trainer will come across individuals who will

have these characteristic. More possibilities are, they may in a mixture of combinations.

Every session designed should compass audio, video and kinesthetic features for maximum transfer of

information to the participants. E.g: A presenter who will make visual aids for presentation, present it him/her

self or others narration for it and include some exercises or games to further elaborate it, will be the most

successful in transferring the knowledge.

But the information present in these visual, audio aids should include live examples of business or people

involved in it for personalities who are Accommodators, create environment for imagination and processing

for imaginary solutions for a given problem. This is for Diverger type of individuals. Converger also want to put

their acquired information into action, for those a presenter should come up with practical exercises. Now if

presenter would give examples of people already in use of such solutions and what results they acquired, will

mostly attract Assimilator type individuals.

For further reading an activity booklet is included in this study.

Auditory Visual Kinesthetic

Diverger

Accomodator

Assimilator

Converger


Learning Styles

Communication between Mr. Raymond Andrew Noe, Phd writer of “Employee Training and Development” and

Mr. Zulfiqar Maqbool, PHR management student at Hamdard University.

ACTVITY BOOKLET

In depth look into Four learning Styles of Kolb.

CONVERGER - Those with highest scores in Abstract Conceptualization (AC) and Active Experimentation (AE).

This person's greatest strength lies in the practical application of ideas. A person with this style seems to do

best in those situations where there is a single correct answer or solution to a question or problem and can

focus on specific problems or situations. Research on this style of learning shows that Convergers are

relatively unemotional, preferring to deal with things rather than people. They often choose to specialize in

the physical sciences, engineering, and computer sciences.

DIVERGER - Those with highest scores in Concrete Experience (CE) and Reflective Observation (RO). Divergers

have characteristics opposite from convergers. Their greatest strengths lie in creativity and imaginative ability.

A person with this learning style excels in the

ability to view concrete situations from many perspectives and generate many ideas such as in a

"brainstorming" session. Research shows that Divergers are interested in people and tend to be imaginative

and emotional. They tend to be interested in the arts and often have humanities or liberal arts backgrounds.

Counselors, organizational development specialists, and personnel managers tend to be characterized by this

learning style. ASSIMILATOR - Those with highest scores in Abstract Conceptualization (AC) and

Reflective Observation (RO). This person's strength lies in the ability to understand and create theories. A

person with this learning style excels in inductive reasoning and in synthesizing various ideas and observations

into an integrated whole. This person, like the converger, is less interested in people and more concerned

with abstract concepts, but is less concerned with the

practical use of theories. For this person it is more important that the theory be logically sound and precise; in

a situation where a theory or plan does not fit the "facts," the Assimilator would be likely to disregard or re-

examine the facts. As a result, this learning style is more characteristic of the basic sciences and mathematics

rather than the applied sciences.

Assimilators often choose careers involving research and planning.

ACCOMMODATOR.- Those with highest scores in Concrete Experience (CE) and Active Experimentation (AE).

Accommodators are polar opposites form Assimilators. Their greatest strengths lie in carrying out plans and

experiments and involving themselves in new

experiences. They are risk-takers and excel in those situations requiring quick decisions and adaptations. In

situations where a theory or plan does not fit the "facts," they tend to discard it and try something else. They

often solve problems in an intuitive trial and error manner, relying heavily on other people for information.

Accomodators are at ease with people but may be seen as impatient and "pushy." Their educational

background is often in practical fields such as business or education. They prefer “action-oriented" jobs such

as nursing, teaching, marketing, or sales.

References Kolb, D. (1985). Learning style inventory. Boston, MA: McBer and Compan


Here is the short exercise form KOLB inventory test I took for the Graduate teacher program… I have given more palatable “names” to the learning styles for the purpose of referring to them in class. The names are below and the little activity I use is directly adapted from the original Kolb inventory Kolb Learning Inventory, Quick Activity

4= most like you, 1= least like you… rank each response.

1. When I learn:

___ I like to deal with my feelings. (CE) ___ I like to think about ideas. (AC)

___ I like to be doing things. (AE) ___ I like to watch and listen. (RO)

2. I learn best when:

___ I listen and watch carefully. (RO) ___ I rely on logical thinking. (AC)

___ I trust my hunches and feelings. (CE) ___ I work hard to get things done. (AE)

3. When I am learning:

___ I tend to reason things out.(AC) ___ I am responsible about things. (AE)

___ I am quiet and reserved. (RO) ___ I have strong feelings & reactions. (CE)

4. I learn by:

___ feeling. (CE) ___ doing. (AE)

___ watching. (RO) ___ thinking. (AC)

5. When I learn:

___ I get involved. (CE) ___ I like to observe. (RO)

___ I evaluate things. (AC) ___ I like to be active. (AE)

AE‐ Active Experimentation Score: ______

RO‐ Reflective Observation Score: ______

CE‐ Concrete Experience Score: ______

AC‐ Abstract Conceptualization Score: ______

Which two scores are your highest scores?

My learning style titles = Kolb titles

“Devil’s Advocate Learner” = CONVERGER “Social Comfort Learner” = DIVERGER “Hand’s On Learner” = ACCOMODATOR “Fact Oriented Learner” = ASSIMILATOR


Mr. Howard Learning Styles:

The test below will help you identify whether you are primarily visual, auditory or kinesthetic. You can also notice how people around you express themselves, and their choice of words will give you clues. Specific

expressions like “That looks good to me”, “It rings a bell”, or “It doesn’t feel right” could respectively reveal visual, auditory, or kinesthetic tendencies, when the same kind of communication is used often.

By being aware of how you perceive the world, and sensitive to others’ perceptions, you can make everybody’s

life easier, especially yours!

Are you visual, auditory or kinesthetic? Take the test! Select the answer that best applies to you.

1. If I have to learn how to do something, I learn best when I:

a. Watch someone show me how. b. Hear someone tell me how.

c. Try to do it myself.

2. When I spell, I verify accuracy by:

a. Looking at the word to see if it looks correct. b. Sounding the word out in my head.

c. Getting a feeling about the correctness of the spelling.

3. When I read, I often find that I:

a. Visualize what I am reading in my mind's eye.

b. Read out loud or hear the words inside my head. c. Fidget and try to "feel" the content.

4. When I think of a wonderful place I have visited, the very first experience I remember is:

a. The way the place looked. b. The way it sounded.

c. The feeling I got by being there.

5. When asked to give directions, I: a. See the actual places in my mind as I say them or prefer to draw them.

b. Have no difficulty giving then verbally. c. Have to point or move my body as I give them.

6. Thinking of someone I have been immensely drawn to, the first thing that attracted me to this person is: a. The way he or she looked.

b. Something he or she said to me, or something I heard. c. The way he or she touched me, or something I felt.

7. When I have to remember a list of items, I remember them best if I:

a. Write them down. b. Repeat them over and over to myself.

c. Move around and use my fingers to name each item.

8. When I make decisions, it helps to: a. Picture the possible choices in my mind's eye.

b. Hear both sides of a dialogue in my mind. c. Check out how I feel with my different choices.

9. When solving a problem, I: a. Write or draw diagrams to see it.

b. Talk myself through it. c. Use my entire body or move objects to help me think.

10. When I love someone, I enjoy mostly:

a. The way we look together. b. The sound of saying or hearing the words "I love you".

c. The love I feel all through me.

11. To keep occupied while waiting, I: a. Look around, stare, or read.


b. Talk or listen to others.

c. Walk around, manipulate things with my hands, or move or shake my feet while sitting.

12. When I am adding numbers, I verify my answer by:

a. Looking at the numbers to see if they are correct. b. Counting the numbers in my head.

c. Using my fingers to get a feel if it is correct.

13. When trying to recall names, I remember:

a. Faces more easily than names.

b. Names more easily than faces. c. The situation or the meeting more easily than names or faces.

14. When I exercise, I experience satisfaction when I first:

a. See myself in the mirror getting better. b. Hear myself or others describe the changes I have made.

c. Feel my body get stronger and feel it more in shape.

15. During moments of intimacy, I enjoy:

a. Seeing my lover's face.

b. Hearing my lover's voice. c. Getting lost in the sensation.

16. When I am about to buy an article of clothing, I: a. Take another look at it and picture myself wearing it.

b. Have a conversation with myself over the pros and cons of buying it. c. Get a feeling about it or touch it to find out if it's something I'd enjoy wearing.

17. Before going to sleep at night, I appreciate if:

a. The room is dark. b. The room is quiet.

c. The bed feels comfortable.

18. When I think of a former lover, the very first thing I remember is: a. The way he or she looked.

b. His or her voice. c. The way I felt about him or her.

19. I find easier to be with my friends when:

a. They communicate their views clearly. b. Their voice tones are pleasing and I know they are listening to me.

c. I get a feeling they know where I am coming from.

20. For me, the beach is:

a. The look of the beach, the sun's brightness, the blue water and sky. b. The sound of the surf, distant voices, children playing.

c. The feel of the warm sun, the hot sand, the cool water.

21. When people turn me off, I get an immediate experience of dislike when I: a. See them approach.

b. Hear their voice. c. Sense they are nearby.

22. I know my career is progressing when:

a. I see myself moving ahead. b. I hear positive feedback from my superiors.

c. I feel my promotion was well deserved.

Results:

a:________ (Visual) b:________ (Auditory)

c:________ (Kinesthetic)

Reference from ( http://www.way-of-the-mind.com/auditory-visual.html)

http://www.way-of-the-mind.com/auditory-visual.html