Assessing Learning Diversity & Team Building

TEAM D

TEAM LEARNING STYLES

Visual Learners (Jennifer, Laronda, & Crystal)

Verbal Learner (Rupinder)

Solitary Learner (Jeremy)

Visual Learners Visual learners commonly learn

through the use of images, pictures, graphic organizers, illustration, etc.

For these learners it is not difficult to visualize objects through words spoken verbally or read from text.

These learners also share a good spatial sense and have a good sense of direction.

Visual learners share a passion for drawing, art, scribbling and doodling, especially with colors.

Jennifer, Laronda & Crystal The Visual Learners

• As Visual learners we rely on visual aids like charts, graphs, maps and written notes

• It is important for us to see the information to acquire an adequate understanding

• We have good photographic memory

• As visual learners, we are also detail orientated and

organized.

Challenges Encountered During Group work

Visuals are imperative to the learning of this group but working in an online environment, which is predominated by mainly text based readings, these may not always available.

Directions, which are clear and written coherently are imperative to our learning which are not always provided by group members.

Visual learners require a detailed schedule of what needs to be completed at particular time, day, etc.› As each group member usually does not require these details to

be on paper this is not always availble in a group setting.

How to Overcome Challenges?

• For visual learners it is important for team members to include:

• visuals such as color to highlight important points and use visual words when explaining a concept.

• When assigning tasks it is important for visual learners:• to ask group members for clear directions and in turn it is

necessary for group members to provide these detailed and coherent directions.

• Visuals learners need to develop personal schedules to meet deadlines when working in teams as a way to keep on track.

• In an online learning setting schedules can be posted by visual learners for other team members who may also be visual learners.

Verbal Learners

Verbal learners generally feel at ease expressing their ideas both verbally and in writing.

Verbal learners get more out of words--written and spoken explanations.

Learn through reading and writing and enjoy these activities thoroughly.

Are well versed and have an extensive vocabulary.

Rupinder Grewal: The Verbal Learner

As a verbal learner I feel that I am able to express my opinions and thoughts easily both verbally and in writing

I share an interest in reading and writing

I am able to express myself and communicate effectively with those around me

In relation to communication, I am also a good listener

Learning different languages fascinates me and I enjoy learning new words and exploring ways to expand my vocabulary

Verbal Learner & Teamwork

As a Verbal learners some of the challenges I may encounter working in a team include:› As an online student a problem I may encounter as a

verbal learner is the inability to communicate face to face. It is very important for verbal learners to orally express and

communicate what they are learning. › Verbal learners are expressive and enjoy writing and

sharing their perspectives with others, this may be overbearing in a group setting as it may sway others not to participate and in turn allow me to always take on the leadership position.

How to Overcome Challenges?

I can overcome my challenge of face to face/vocal communication by:› using conference calls or tools such as Skype to

establish communication with my team members.

As a verbal learner written expression is key, to allow each member to participate and vocalize their opinions equally:› I will provide each member of the group an opportunity

to respond before I write too many comments.› Also I need to allow each group member to take on the

leadership role and not always take on this role myself.

JEREMY LENDVOY: The Solitary Learner

A Solitary Learner is said to be an individual who is independent, self-motivated and private both in personal and professional life.

This type of person is very self-aware and who organizes their life in a very methodical and focused way.

Solitary learners thrive on structure and organization.

The Life of a Solitary Learner

“You like to spend time alone. You may have a personal hobby. You prefer travelling in remote places away from crowds.”“You prefer to work on problems by retreating to somewhere quiet and may not like working in groups.”

“You are organized and feel comfortable making plans and setting goals. You know your direction in life and work to achieve it.”

The Solitary Learner in a Team Environment

The Challenge: A cooperative learning team or group is obviously not ideal for those that thrive in a solitary learning environment. › Problems that may arise are:

withdrawing from the group becoming frustrated with having

to make concessions› However, by recognizing a few

key challenges and establishing solutions, a solitary learner can be a useful contributor to the team’s success.

Overcoming Challenges

Assign Yourself a Key Role or Responsibility in the group: › In a team environment the

intrapersonal learner needs to be able to recognize their individual role or responsibility in the group.

› With a clear role, can act goal oriented when undertaking their specific responsibility and inevitably contribute positively to the team.

Use Other Team Members Positively: › Although solitary learners enjoy

working independently, other team members can play a crucial role in their learning experience.

› A solitary learner may often hit roadblocks or have concerns that arise in their studies. Other team members should

be used positively to clarify information as it may be more efficient to look to others for help rather than spend too much time trying to work it out themselves.

Prepare to Make Concessions and Be Flexible› A team environment encompasses

various viewpoints and expertise.

› Although the solitary learner has clear personal goals and objectives, they must be ready to make concessions for others whose opinions or goals misalign or contradict their own.

› Solitary learners must remember their behaviours, thoughts and actions have a large influence over the overall team performance. A willingness to accept others thoughts and feelings can lead to a more positive outcome for both themselves and the team.