Myth #1: Tailor training to people’s preferred learning styles
People might perceive themselves as an auditory learner or believe that they learn better when they use visual materials. However, the evidence clearly shows that visual learners (or auditory or kinesthetic or whatever type of learner) don’t exist and that people don’t learn better when they follow their own preferences (Pashler, 2008).
Numerous studies have found no improved learning outcomes when instructional methods are matched to visual, auditory, or kinesthetic (VAK) learning styles (Krätzig & Arbuthnott, 2006; Rogowsky et al., 2014).
Reality
The nature of the topic should dictate the most effective instructional strategies, rather than trying to tailor methods to individual learning styles. For instance, teaching cellular biology can be enhanced by using visual aids like diagrams and animations to illustrate cell structures and functions, while teaching a sport like basketball is most effective through drills and practice.
Additionally, pedagogical effectiveness is enhanced with careful consideration of people’s prior knowledge, abilities, and interests—three key areas where learners differ (Riener & Willingham, 2010).