The VAK is a frequently disputed* but very familiar approach to looking at learning preferences. Because of this familiarity, it is often the method that many students will use to describe how they learn. 

  • Auditory Learning: learning best when information is heard.
  • Visual Learning: learning best through visual images or visualization.
  • Kinaesthetic Learning: learning best by doing

*Rather than looking at this framework as a means of having students identify with a singular learning style, use it as a reference for how multiple learning styles can be accepted and supported. This framework can also be a useful tool to use to guide your own assumptions and biases when designing learning opportunities and supporting your students.

SituationVisualAuditoryTactile / Kinesthetic
When I try to concentrate…I am affected by colour and a sense of chaos/order. I notice things around me other people don’t notice.I am affected by sounds. I try to control the amount and type of noise around me. I hear things around me that others don’t notice.I am easily distracted by commotion, and have difficulty sitting still.
When I remember…I see vivid, detailed pictures.I hear voices, sounds & music.I feel the sensation of the experience.
When I interact with others…I find it difficult to speak or listen for very long. I interpret meaning from facial expression & body language.I enjoy listening but sometimes have difficulty if I have something to say. I can talk for extended periods and like to tell stories.I gesture with my hands & pause frequently. I stand very close to others. I may not listen well & sometimes miss non-verbal cues.
When I contact people…I prefer face-to-face meetings.I prefer speaking by telephone for serious conversations.I prefer to interact while walking or participating in some activity.
When I see an acquaintance…I forget names but remember faces. I know people’s names and I can usually quote what we discussed.I remember what we did together.
When I relax…I watch TV, see a play, visit an exhibit, or go to a movie.I listen to the radio, play music, read, or talk with a friend.I play sports, make crafts, or build something with my hands.
When I read…I like descriptive examples and I may pause to imagine the scene.I enjoy the narrative most and I can almost “hear” the characters talk.I prefer action-oriented stories, but I do not often read for pleasure.
When I spell…I envision the word in my mind or imagine what the word looks like when written.I sound out the word, sometimes aloud, and tend to recall rules about letter order.I get a feel for the word by writing it out or pretending to type it.
When I do something new…I seek out demonstrations, pictures, or diagrams.I want verbal and written instructions, and to talk it over with someone else.I jump right in to try it, keep trying, and try different approaches.
When I assemble an object…I look at the picture first and then, maybe, read the directions.I read the directions, or I talk aloud as I work.I usually ignore the directions and figure it out as I go along.
When I interpret someone’s mood…I examine facial expressions & body language.I listen to the quality of the speech (tone, pitch, etc).I focus on body language.
When I teach other people…I show them.I tell them, write it out, or I ask them a series of questions.I demonstrate how it is done and then ask them to try.
When I want to learn something…I take notes & read them.I audiotape the content & might even listen to it again.I take notes but don’t read them.
When I make decisions…I organize my thoughts & actions by writing. I keep lists & follow them.I need to talk about it first. I don’t always trust my instincts.I move around. I attack problems & may be impulsive. I tend to understand the big picture.
I will be motivated to learn…What looks important.What sounds important.What feels important.
I like…QuietTo be talking or hearing someone else talking. Activity
TOTALVisual _____Auditory _____Tactile/Kinesthetic _____