Another level of learning styles depends on whether a person is an extrovert learner or an introvert learner. Extroverts are very social, can often read others, enjoy being part of a group and often work well with others. Extroverts enjoy participating in lively, thought provoking discussions. They may often speak just to fill the silence, are interested in trying new things, and focus on the outer world.
Introvert learners work better alone, are very self-motivated and prefer solitary activities. They often march to the beat of a different drum. Introverted learners prefer to process ideas by thinking to themselves. They will speak only when they have processed an idea, rehearsed it, and prepared themselves to share the information. When they are forced to comment before completely processing, they often feel pushed and feel they have said something unproductive. Introvert learners often have the ability to understand their own feelings, motivations and moods. They focus on the inner world of ideas and are often quietly thinking through problems when you think you are being ignored.
Left-Brain or Right-Brain Dominated Learners
All learners are either left-brain dominated or right-brain dominated.
Left-Brain Dominated Learners
Those who are left-brain dominated tend to be objective and prefer clear, precise data. They are time oriented, organized, and prefer to work alone. They do better in quiet surroundings than those with a lot of distraction. Left-brain dominated learners will ask a lot of questions, take notes and come to a sound conclusion when determining situations and outcomes.
Left-brain dominated learners often become scientists, engineers, lawyers and accountants. They are often referred to as “academic” learners. They prefer classical music, careful planning and are more apt to consider alternatives to problems than their right-brained counterparts.
Right-Brain Dominated Learners
Those who are right-brain dominated are intuitive and tend to be subjective. They enjoy open-ended problems for which there is no “right” answer. They get along well with others and prefer busy, active, noisy environments. Right-brain dominated learners will quickly get a feel for situations and be more tuned in to their intuition.
Right-brain dominated learners often become musicians, actors, athletes and artists. They are often referred to as “artistic” learners. They prefer popular music, parties, active participation and are more apt to go with the first idea that comes to them when making decisions.