Dunn and Dunn Learning Style Model: A Reflection

After having an understanding of the learning style model presented by Dr. Ken and Rita Dunn, I enumerated or at least identified my learning components in relation to their 21 elements. It’s a bit interesting to become aware of these factors as they truly influence the manner an individual gains learning. Below is the summary of my own learning components relevant to this model.

ENVIRONMENTAL STRAND

• Sound. As I previously mentioned in this journal, I enjoyed reading and studying my lessons while music is playing as it helps me relax and filter out extraneous sounds/noises

• Light. I prefer studying in a bright environment as it prevents me from sleeping 😀

• Temperature. I can’t study in a very hot weather. I perspire easily and it makes me uncomfortable to  focus on my lessons while feeling the “heat” in and out

• Design. It’s a combination of informal and formal designs. At first, I will study my lessons using a chair and desk (an office set-up to formalize the setting) and then I will shift to my couch, to bed, and there it goes… sleeping comes next! 😀

 

EMOTIONAL STRAND

• Motivation. Admittedly, my motivation fluctuates. There were times I’m so eager to learn and study because of many factors (inspiration and positive outlook) while there were times I’m a fan of procrastination (prioritizing gimmicks, leisure, etc.).

• Persistence. I don’t like the atmosphere of studying one subject/course at a long period of time. For instance during college, I review my major subject for 3-4 hours, followed by 1-2 hours for minor subjects, before going back to major subject. I’m also used to do “multitasking” (though I realized this is not healthy for optimum learning).

• Responsibility. I am generally conforming most especially when it comes to deadlines, specific instructions and the like. I know studying and learning entail big personal responsibility.

• Structure. At times I’m really keen to the “specifics” of a certain project. But more often than not, I’m into experimenting, and adding my own flavors of creating such pieces.

 

SOCIOLOGICAL STRAND

• For the most part, I like to study my lessons alone as I can concentrate more. But it doesn’t mean that I’m not into open discussions and brainstorming. I usually do my part first of understanding the topics at hand, then I will enrich this by exchanging ideas and points with other people. Definitely if the project requires group effort, I can say that I’m comfortable collaborating with different individuals.

 

PHYSIOLOGICAL STRAND

• Mobility. I can finish my lessons in a plain sitting condition. I’m not into moving or doing such things while reading.

• Intake. This is one important component in my own learning. To break the monotony of my studying, I do eat a lot of food (nuts, sweets, breads and junks). I also make this a reward for me (let say, I will only have my favourite pasta ONLY after completing chapters 1-3 of a book).

• Time of the Day. I prefer studying my lessons when the noise level is at its lowest. In our place, it will be during late night (10pm onwards) to early morning (4am to 6am).

• Perceptual Modes. I’m a combination of being a visual and auditory learner. I like it when I see the application of certain concepts (return demonstration) as it gives me a clearer picture of how to do things right. I’m also a fan of teachers who possess a well-modulated voice. It captures my attention easily.

 

PSYCHOLOGICAL STRAND

• Generally, I can say that I’m into inductive reasoning where I focus on the small things first before actually understanding the general picture. However at times, I also enjoy looking at the big picture first and from there gathering and bringing out the small pieces.
• I think my left hemisphere predominates not just because I’m right handed but also the fact that I’m not into creative and artistic thinking for the most part.  I prefer analysing things out over creating exceptional arts.
• Lastly, I prefer to think and reflect first before saying or stating it out. It’s not like playing on the safe  side but it’s more of being responsible to the ideas and points  you’re about to share.

Understanding own learning style may seem difficult but with guiding model like this, we can easily identify or at least have an overview on how we learn things best. Learning styles i believe are subject to change over time, but one thing is for sure: it aids in optimizing learning experiences by making it more meaningful and comfortable.

 

References:

The Dunn and Dunn Learning Styles Model. Retrieved May 28, 2013 from http://www.seechangeconsulting.com.au/images/Page_file_Library_Documents/Dunn%20and%20Dunn%20Model.pdf

 

 

Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligence: A Reflection

Howard Gardner claims that all human beings have multiple intelligences. These multiple intelligences can be nurtured and strengthened, or ignored and weakened. He believes each individual has nine intelligences which are as follows:

• Verbal-Linguistic Intelligence 
• Mathematical-Logical Intelligence

• Musical Intelligence
• Visual-Spatial Intelligence
• Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence 
• Interpersonal Intelligence 
• Intrapersonal Intelligence
• Naturalist Intelligence
• Existential Intelligence

I agree with his theory. At some parts of my life, I can prove that I possessed each of these intelligences in varying degrees. As time goes by, few of these intelligences predominate while some fade in relation with the confronting circumstances.

When I was in my elementary to secondary years, I did excel in mathematics. I always make sure I am one of the best three to compete for different competitions. However, since I started my nursing years (a course that many students claim of having no or less math), I began to strengthen my intrapersonal, interpersonal, and verbal-linguistic intelligences since these are the skills I need to master to win the course. Then entrance examination for graduate school came in. Most of the questions are mathematical in nature including statistics, algebra and general mathematics. I really had a hard time completing this portion of my test which is my comfort zone way back in high school. To cut it short, I know my mathematical intelligence gradually fades as I wasn’t given “continuous” chance of practicing this.

Gardner’s multiple intelligences theory challenged traditional beliefs in the fields of education and cognitive science. According to a traditional definition, intelligence is a uniform cognitive capacity people are born with. This capacity can be easily measured by short-answer tests. According to Howard Gardner, intelligence is:

• The ability to create an effective product or offer a service that is valued in a culture;
• A set of skills that make it possible for a person to solve problems in life; and
• The potential for finding or creating solutions for problems, which involves gathering new knowledge.

To relate on this thought, I have to say that many schools really shifted their practice of evaluating intelligence from mere multiple-choice tests to deeper forms like essays and situational analysis. Personally, I encountered a lot way back in college. It’s really different from the approach being used in high school. Likewise, I believe that one’s intelligence is far beyond his result in an IQ test. It may be a good indicator of your academic success, but many factors need to be considered to holistically understand an individual’s capacity of learning. For instance, the situations surrounding him while taking the IQ test may play a big role. I was given an opportunity to answer an IQ test (though NOT the standard one). The result was good but I didn’t regard it to “label” my learning abilities.

 

References:

Concept to Classroom: What is the Theory of Multiple Intelligences (MI). Retrieved May 28, 2013 from http://www.thirteen.org/edonline/concept2class/mi/index.html

Concept to Classroom: How does this Theory differ from the Traditional Definition of Intelligence. Retrieved May 28, 2013 from http://www.thirteen.org/edonline/concept2class/mi/index_sub1.html

Experience as the Best Teacher

Many times that we hear people saying “experience is the best teacher.” Undoubtedly this is true like what Catherine Palomo stressed on. But I have to agree with what Robenile Malit suggested that experience is far better to view as “essential” in the completion of learning. Experience itself does not give a lesson to the person for it is the individual himself who will equate a learning opportunity for every experience he had. We can always choose to ignore or to maximize whatever situation that we encounter.

Like Roshiley Tilistyak (a nurse also), nursing procedures are taught through lectures and return demonstrations in school but it is during repeated hands-on experiences that we actually capture the essence of doing them. Sometimes, I encounter difficulty understanding such procedures until having the chance of doing it in the real setting. Many times I told myself “Ganun lang pala kadali!”

Lastly, let me quote what Malikha Marist Antonio shared in the discussion forum. “Do you know the difference between education and experience? Education is when you read the fine print; experience is what you get when you don’t” -Pete Seeger

Keep going everyone! God bless 😀

Reference:

Catherine Palomo. How True that Experience Determines Learning. Retrieved May 28, 2013 from http://myportal.upou.edu.ph/mod/forum/discuss.php?d=46128

What We Say in Paperless Learning

This discussion was initiated by Pamela Rose “Pam” Flores that captured the interest of many. She said that paperless society is encouraged in order to help save the environment (by minimizing the use of tress). The question is if this is possible while still promoting optimum learning.

Most of the responses I’ve read were a combination of pros and cons of paperless education. I like Rommel Diaz consider the traditional hard-copy materials as my comfort zone. I’m used to it and I know I learn better with it. Likewise, some of us like Jules used to jot down notes in the book or reading material itself or making highlights to emphasize important details (I think this can also be done in PDF files but I don’t know how :D).

On the other hand, eye discomfort due to prolonged eye contact with computer screens and the like was one of the top reasons why electronic mode of studying is not that highly preferred. I too experience the same thing most especially at night.

Of all the responses posted, let me quote what Ma. Cristina De Los Reyes shared in the forum. These are excerpts from the writings of Former CHED Chairman Fr. Rolando de la Rosa, OP. It goes as “The Philippines has become “a nation of 80 million cabled, cell phoned, ipod-ed and webbed couched potatoes…Today many young people grow up clueless about anything that did not come from the Internet. Considered as the ultimate source of revelation and knowledge, the Internet can verify or falsify, justify or nullify any notion, rumor or issue. Ask people how they came to believe or espouse a particular idea. Their predictable answer is: “I got it from the Internet.” God has blessed us with a big, wondrous earth to unravel. Let us not allow television and the Internet to transform it into a small world, fit for people who think little.”

For the most part, changes brought about by technological advancement always depend on the appreciation of an individual. We all know that we are highly diverse who came from different generations, and this may partly explain why we have different “says” on the aforementioned issue. For me, studying and learning must be one that is comfortable and enjoyable. It’s not required to always go with the flow if it will just compromise your learning experiences.

Happy learning! 😀

 

Reference:

Pamela Rose “Pam” Flores. Paper Less Learning. Retrieved May 28, 2013 from http://myportal.upou.edu.ph/mod/forum/discuss.php?d=46147

Learning Styles Evolve as One Grows Up

Much has been said about the concepts of learning styles. Instead of refining what exactly it is, I think the focus should be placed more on how to effectively utilize these factors to learn better.

As stated in the article (web.cortland.edu), learning style can also be described as a set of factors, behaviors, and attitudes that facilitate learning for an individual in a given situation. It is true that there’s a particular style one can used depending on the learning content to be acquired. For instance, being an auditory learner is not applicable at all times like watching a return demonstration of a procedure for it requires keen observation as well. Like in the discussion forum I have participated in, Lylah dela Cruz stated that learning styles of the students should not be the primary consideration of the teachers in making their teaching strategies. Instead, the content of the material should determine which teaching strategy is best to use. I totally agree with this one. It talks about modifying one’s ability to learn and strategize as the situation calls for it.

In the same article, it says that styles influence how students learn, how teachers teach, and how the two interact.  Each person is born with certain tendencies toward particular styles, but these biological or inherited characteristics are influenced by culture, personal experiences, maturity level, and development. As a child grows and matures his or her brain grows, develops and matures. As time passes the way a child learns best may change significantly. This is an ultimate guiding principle for educators to consider so that learning can be maximized without being enclosed in a small box. Learning style matures in as much as everyone does so.

With this in mind, we, aspiring teachers will be more guided as we start to prepare the techniques we’re going to use in the near time. God bless us! 😀

References:

What are Learning Styles. Retrieved May 28, 2013 from http://web.cortland.edu/andersmd/learning/Introduction.htm

Lylah dela Cruz. Is it Always the Teacher. Retrieved May 28, 2013, from http://myportal.upou.edu.ph/mod/forum/discuss.php?d=46135

To Teach Is To Touch Students’ Lives

It is never too late to achieve what you really desire of becoming. Admittedly, I was forced to take up nursing just because my parents wanted me to become one. Never in my childhood did I dream about it. Since they are the ones who will support my finances in schooling, I was left with only one choice- to continue schooling by following the course they imposed.

Nowadays, I know that to attend college is one privilege. I tried my best to be a good one. I thought I would learn to love nursing. I like reaching out with others but I know not through this profession. To cut it short, I graduated with flying colors and even made a remarkable achievement in the licensure examination. I’m trying to convince myself that these are already “signs” from above that nursing is really meant for me. I was able to be trained in one of the country’s respected world-class medical institutions; in fact, I was hired after the training period. Asking me to sign the contract made me think more than a hundred times. I know if I did, I will have to perform the duties and responsibilities half-heartedly for a long period of time. Until I realized that there’s really a calling inside of me. To be engaged in the noblest profession. To teach. To be part of others’ dreams. I know I missed an opportunity that very seldom knocks, but I firmly believe I’m moving closer to God’s intention for me. Others used to say “sobrang sayang!” that I let a good nursing career passed, but I am certain there’s something far better awaiting me.

In my dream of becoming a professional teacher, I want to be viewed in a very simple way. One who is capable of actually educating my students, and not merely impressing them with my abilities. For me, a teacher’s role doesn’t end by simply imparting the lessons the students need to learn. More than this is to create a harmonious relationship with them, in an effort to bring positive behavioral changes on their part. I was once a student, and so I know how to empathize with them. I know they would prefer an average teacher who knows how to touch their lives, rather than a very knowledgeable one who cares less. It takes a genuine attitude and dedication to become a real educator. Not everything is learned from the book. Experiences give us better lessons, and we have to use them as guide in facilitating better learning outcomes.

With this in mind, I am hoping that I will deserve the privilege and honor to be included in the roster of Registered Professional Teachers in the country in the near time. I know God perfectly put me in this position, and He will never let anyone fail as He promised. May God bless us all!   😀

The Way It Used to Be

Looking back on my schooling years is a combination of pride and regrets. I am proud to say that I became a good student during those years yet after having couple of realizations, I came to know that I could have done more. Much of these regrets can be attributed to my thinking “that I’m doing the right thing.” Just because I believe that my learning style is good enough, I wasn’t able to seek for a better one.

I’m just an average person like most of the people I know. Every achievement I had was purely a result of hard work and dedication. I won’t say that I can do things better just by relying on my “natural intelligence and abilities.” Yes I believe that we’re given gifts of talents and wisdom, but it is within us on how we are going to maximize them.

With my learning style, I used to study my lessons when the noise level is at its lowest- late night and early morning for me. I know I can function better when there’s no extraneous distraction at all. Likewise, I used to do it while listening to music- this for me is not a noise but rather a technique that will lead me to stay awake longer than I used to. It may be viewed as a multitasking activity that reduces effectiveness of learning, but I have to affirm that it helps me a lot.

I’m quite amazed to hear others saying, “Mabilis ako mag-memorya. Mga dalawang basahan lang kaya ko na.” Honestly, I’m not that good when it comes to memorizing things. In fact I hate it. But I know I have to at least be good at it to facilitate learning and understanding. Especially with the degree I finished, nursing, it really requires to memorize many things including drugs and disease pathology before being able to understand complex concepts. Well, I know that there are people who have awesome capacity to memorize things including the so-called “photographic memory.” I know I am not one of them, but I can be one through constant practice and effort. It only means to say that we can achieve whatever it is by exhibiting genuine passion and dedication.

As discussed previously, we can only say that a person has learned if there’s an effective change in behavior over a sustained period of time. It’s easy to say that you learn by many ways you know, but it’s only others who can tell if you really do so, as you interact with one another. Also for me, learning is successful if it allows to make use of oneself for the improvement of the community in general.

It’s always a firm belief on my part that learning can be achieved regardless of the setting that comes with it. It is not limited to the four corners of the classroom. As long as we have the desire to learn, then we can by any means available. I also view the success of learning as being not parallel to the “grades and distinctions” you can receive. As a review lecturer for local nursing board exam, I used to say to my students that board rating wouldn’t define how good they are as a newly registered professional. It’s just a matter of numerical expression. True learning will immerse during the course of interacting with other people. With this in my mind, I never grew up grade-conscious. I know myself better than what these grades are trying to say. I know when and where to pay more time and attention, in as much as I know where I excel.  For me, learning is an opportunity available to everyone that involves maximizing abilities and potentials, in the pursuit of improving one’s functioning in the society. Academic achievement, on the other hand may be defined as a reflection of a student’s level of performance in school as measured by grades and remarks properly determined from a set of standards.

Lastly, I have to say that learning is something open and free to everyone. It is not bounded by one’s capacity to pay for formal educational classes. All it takes is dedication to acquire deeper aspects of knowing. For in the end, God created us with a gift of understanding.  😀

I am “Rhed”