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Unleashing Your Full Potential: Using VARK Beyond Learning in the Workplace
As I was doing some research for my content, I read some material about VARK. It’s the acronym for the different styles of learning – visual, auditory, reading and writing, and kinesthetics. Even though it’s about learning styles, these principles can be applied at work, empowering us to excel in various aspects of our professional lives. It can enhance communication, collaboration and personal growth.
“The capacity to learn is a gift; the ability to learn is a skill; the willingness to learn is a choice. “
– Brian Herbert
Here’s how can VARK be applied in the workplace –
- Embracing diverse communication styles: Communication approaches can be adapted to the preferred learning styles of our colleagues. Thus, fostering effective interactions. For visual learners, use visuals like graphs, slides, infographics or models; engage in discussions and brainstorming sessions or storytelling techniques for auditory learners; for reading/writing learners, provide written summaries, handouts, reports or pamphlets or even writing exercises like feedback and reviews, and incorporate hands-on activities, simulations, workshops or real-world projects or experiential learning for kinesthetic learners. This multidimensional and inclusive approach will ensure that the message is received, understood and appreciated by all the team members.
- Fostering team collaboration: By understanding the learning preferences of each other, the team can create a dynamic synergy among them. The diverse strengths of visual, auditory, reading /writing, and kinaesthetic learners can be leveraged to design collaborative activities that cater to different styles. This collaborative harmony leads to enhanced problem-solving, improved creativity and more effective teamwork. Imagine a scenario where a project requires brainstorming and idea generation. Visual learners can contribute by sketching diagrams or creating mind maps; auditory learners can engage in lively discussions and brainstorming. Reading/writing learners can contribute by conducting research summarising finding in written form and preparing reports. Kinaesthetic learners can offer their hands-on approach by prototyping and experimenting.
- Tapping your potential and enhancing skill building: VARK can be used for personal growth as well. Identify your preferred learning style and apply it to your professional development efforts. Visual learners can create visual representations of their career goals, while auditory learners can use podcasts and webinars on relevant topics to improve their knowledge base. Reading /writing learners can journal or create personal guides, and kinesthetics can engage in practical, hands-on experiences. By aligning personal growth efforts with your learning style, you can maximise your potential in the workplace.
- Captivate audiences with customised presentations and training: Understanding the learning preferences of the audience is crucial for anchors and trainers. When conducting training or making presentations, a balanced mix of visual aids, interactive exercises, written materials, and hands-on experiences will aid in better results. It ensures that each participant can engage and absorb the content in a way that resonates with their learning style. This leads to a more engaged participant, increased knowledge retention, and a more forceful and potent learning experience.
- Embracing diversity and inclusion: Everyone can process the information provided to them, albeit in different ways. And VARK reminds us of the importance of this. By embracing and accommodating diverse learning styles, an inclusive environment is fostered where every team member can thrive. Celebrating the richness of our differences and leveraging them to create a more dynamic and harmonious workplace can help develop a more cohesive team and work environment.
Remember, VARK is a tool that helps us understand and adapt to different learning preferences. By applying its principles beyond traditional education, we can transform the way we communicate, collaborate, and grow professionally. Mutual respect and understanding allow individual members to feel valued for their contributions. Recognising its true potential, accepting the strength in differences and by embracing the power of VARK, we can unlock the full potential of our collective intelligence. Let’s tap into this untapped reservoir of knowledge and creativity in the workplace.
Interesting articles I read
It really gets more and more interesting. Scientists have discovered a small brown planet that’s orbiting a distant planet at breakneck speeds. It’s small, super-hot and 14,000 lightyears away from Earth. It’s discoveries like these that keep you wondering if there’s a possibility of life elsewhere, just a long shot!
According to scientists, global warming has continued at an alarming rate in spite of efforts being made to create awareness. It may be too late for reversing the process soon. The policymakers and others involved in decision-making have to hasten the process if we want the planet to survive.
Books by my bedside
Completed reading Atomic Habits by James Clear. A life-altering book if one decides to follow through the simple steps that he has proposed. Since I’m a person of habit, I could relate to the book. Now I’ve asked my kids to read it hoping that maybe Clear may get to them the message that I’ve been trying to convey for so many years. But seriously, if you haven’t yet read it, read it. It’s easy flow will keep you engaged.
Have started reading Lessons in Chemistry by Garmus Bonnie. Have picked up this book more out of curiosity. It’s one of the bestsellers on every display window of bookstores. The storyline may appear regular but the way the whole story unfolds is a credit to the author. The characters are well-etched and I’ve reached half time and can’t wait to finish the book.
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Take care till next time,
