Adult learning styles are no different from the way you learned when you were young. In fact, all of us have been learning since the moment we were born and the style in which we learn will remain the same throughout our lifetime. Adult learning styles fall into one of four categories, Visual/Verbal, Visual/Non Verbal, Auditory/Verbal or Tactile/Kinesthetic.

To aid in the lifelong process of learning, you will want to know and understand the differences between adult learning styles. Even if you are through with your academic career, you are still going to want to learn all you can about adult learning styles if you haven't already. You will continue learning every day of your life, regardless if you are in school or not. Television shows, magazines, books, the internet and our jobs will constantly be teaching us something and if you do not know the best way to process information according to your learning style, you will not retain the information as well as you may have.

The different adult learning styles have nothing to do with intelligence. There is no right or wrong way to learn. The important thing to understand is how you learn and process information, so you can help yourself study in the ways most conducive to you.

Of the four adult learning styles, you will most likely find one that describes you. If you are a visual/verbal learner, you work best in an environment that allows you to absorb information both visually and in a written language format as well. Blackboards, overhead projectors and written handouts are the best ways to help you understand, process and retain information. If you are a visual/nonverbal learner, you will work best when information is presented to you visually in a picture or design format. You process information the best when there are visual aids, like film and maps to help you. The tactile learner works well with the hands on approach. Any type of lab setting or field work that allows this person to get up, touch and "do" will enhance their retention of information. The auditory/verbal learner benefits from listening to a lecture or presentation and then participating in a group discussion about it. Which of the four adult learning styles are you?

If you are still not sure which of the four adult learning styles best describes you, there are some quizzes, test and surveys you can take that will help you figure it out. There will be a series of questions you have to answer before you can learn which learning style you are. You can find these tests online by using search engines, at a bookstore or possibly a library and through a school or university.

Remember, it's not only important to understand adult learning styles if you are in school. You will continue to learn throughout the course of your lifetime and you will need to know which of the adult learning styles you are before you can properly help yourself study and retain information.