Nathan Levin Psychology 101- CRN 95021

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VARK Learning Styles Paper
This paper will summarize my learning style and the related study/test-taking strategies
that support my particular learning style. In addition, it will include my specific plans for
utilizing the suggestions for studying and test-taking to promote my successful completion of
this course. The strategies discussed are found in VARK-a guide to learning styles (Fleming,
2011) and in Ciccarellis How to Study. (Ciccarelli & White, 2015)
After taking the VARK assessment I have learned that I have a mild Read/Write learning
preference. (Fleming, 2011) This means that I absorb information more thoroughly when I read
and write the information. (as opposed to only listening to or seeing the information) Some of the
suggestions to help me take in new information include: reading the textbook thoroughly
including headings, glossaries and definitions, relying on handouts/manuals, and reading my
notes multiple times. In order to retain the information, it may be necessary to rewrite my notes,
re-read my notes, and to describe diagrams with words. VARK recommends several strategies
for test preparation for the Read/Write learner. For instance, it may be helpful for me to take
practice multiple choice tests, write out test answers, and to create lists/outlines of important
points. (Fleming, 2011)
In Ciccarellis How to Study, (Ciccarelli & White, 2015) the focus is on different study
methods as opposed to different learning styles. The text outlines four study methods including
verbal, visual, auditory, and action. The verbal study method includes some similar strategies
mentioned by VARK. For instance, writing out information in your own words, writing out
descriptions of diagrams, and repetition of facts to be remembered. In addition, new strategies
are discussed such as using flash cards for main points and using post-it notes for key terms.
Ciccarelli goes on to discuss other important factors that can promote success in college. It
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discusses time management, note taking, test taking, paper writing, and memory enhancement
strategies. (Ciccarelli & White, 2015)
Based on my readings of VARK and Ciccarelli and on my experiences so far this
semester, I have developed specific plans to maximize my performance this semester in
Psychology 101.
Time management is a critical factor when trying to balance work, family, and college
responsibilities. Keeping a detailed planner with class times, assignments, appointments, and
deadlines is critical for me so that no details are overlooked. I also plan to utilize small chunks
of time to complete short tasks or a small part of a large reading/assignment as my time is very
limited. However, I will continue to go to bed on time and schedule small amounts of recreation
to manage stress and to relax.
To gain the most out of limited class time, I will need to continue to complete my reading
prior to class meetings. When reading the chapter for the first time, surveying the headings,
diagrams, and bolded key words helps me to understand and organize the material. When I come
to class prepared with notes, I can listen more carefully while adding additional information
during the lecture. These notes are especially helpful to me when studying for the exam, as I do
not need to re-read the entire chapter. I have found using flash cards with key terms, definitions,
and outlines to be helpful. Using the textbooks special features including the printed quizzes
and the online MyPsychLab practice tests have helped me become familiar with the testing
format as well as helping me to review the material.
The strategies for paper writing and memory enhancement are two critical areas for me as
an adult learner returning to college after many years. I will need to review the steps of writing a
paper in addition to managing my time to allow for researching, outlining, and revising. I will
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also use whatever technology is available to help me be successful including grammar check,
spell check, and APA formatting. In the area of memory enhancement, I have experimented with
the mnemonic strategy already and plan to try the peg-word method and the verbal/rhythmic
technique during the course of the semester as needed.
After reviewing both VARK and Ciccarelli, I have learned about my personal learning
style and various methods of study. In addition, I have developed concrete plans for using the
suggested strategies and am confident that these strategies will help me to succeed.
















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Bibliography
Ciccarelli, S. K., & White, J. N. (2015). Psychology. Upper Saddle River: Pearson Education Company.
Fleming, N. (2011). Read/Write Strategies. Retrieved from VARK a guide to learning styles:
http://www.VARK-learn.com/english/page.asp?p=readwrite