Being Aware of Yourself as a Reader

Learning Style & Reading

Which style(s) do you prefer?

Visual Learning

• I like to look at diagrams, graphs, and other graphics.
• I like to see the words.
• I like to write out words, copy from text, etc.

Auditory Learner

• I like when someone reads to me.
• I like to read the words out loud.

Tactile Learner

• I like to do something when I read e.g. make a diagram, copy out words, doodle.

Issues

It's important to be aware of your style, knowledge, skills, and attitudes to the text you are about to read.

Reflect on the following 4 areas before starting to read:

1. Learning Style: What is my personal learning style and how can I use my style to help me read better?

You can determine your own learning style by using a free on-line assessment tool, such as:

• Index of Learning Styles at www4.ncsu.edu/unity/lockers/users/f/felder/public/ILSpage.html
• VAK at www.businessballs.com/vaklearningstylestest.htm
• Myers Briggs at www.teamtechnology.co.uk/mmdi/questionnaire/

2. Background knowledge/schema: How much background knowledge do I have of the topic?

3. Attitude: What is my attitude to the reading? e.g. Do I feel motivated? Do I feel like putting it off?

4. Concentration and focusing: How well will I be able to concentrate and focus on the reading?

Strategies

Learning Styles & Approaches to Reading (35 KB)

Improving your Concentration (22 KB)

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