VARK – The Four Different Learning Styles
The Four Different Learning Styles That Every Employer Should Know
Employee Development and Learning Styles
When it comes to employee development, several factors influence progress. The type of training provided, motivation, and commitment to learning all play an important role. That’s where the VARK model comes in.
As an employer, you should also consider how different learning styles affect development. Apprentices often need extensive training, both through their apprenticeship programme and on-the-job practice. By tailoring training to their learning style, you can improve engagement and results.
What Is VARK?
The VARK questionnaire helps identify how someone prefers to learn. Research shows that adapting training to match this preference leads to better outcomes. At Blue Lion Training Academy, we use VARK and other learning style theories to ensure apprentices reach their full potential.
The Four VARK Learning Styles
Visual Learners
Visual learners absorb information best through charts, graphs, maps, and flow diagrams. Presenting information in these formats makes it easier for them to retain key points.
Auditory Learners
Auditory learners prefer listening and speaking. They thrive in lectures, group discussions, or when using audio materials. Talking out loud helps them process and understand information.
Read/Write Learners
These learners benefit from reading and writing. They prefer manuals, essays, reports, or online guides. Note-taking is a strong tool for them, as it helps reinforce learning.
Kinesthetic Learners
Kinesthetic learners understand concepts best through hands-on experience. For example, they learn mechanics by assembling a mechanism, or design skills by creating graphics.
How the VARK Questionnaire Works
The questionnaire typically contains 16 multiple-choice questions, each with four options. Every option links to a learning style.
For example, a common question is:
I like websites that have…
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Things I can click on or try (kinesthetic).
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Interesting visual features (visual).
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Written descriptions or lists (read/write).
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Audio channels such as radio or interviews (auditory).
After completion, scores are calculated, and the chart identifies the preferred learning style. Training can then be tailored to match the apprentice’s style, improving how quickly and effectively they learn.
Why VARK Improves Apprenticeship Training
Although every learner will use a mix of styles, focusing on their main preference usually delivers stronger results. At Blue Lion Training Academy, we integrate VARK into our programmes to help apprentices grow into highly capable employees.
This approach works particularly well for apprentices, as employers can adapt training more easily for one or two individuals than teachers can for large classrooms. By using VARK, you ensure training is more personalised, effective, and engaging.
Applying VARK in the Workplace
We design training programmes across a wide range of industries. For example, apprentices in creative roles often lean toward visual learning, but this is not always the case. The VARK questionnaire ensures you identify the right approach for each apprentice.
When managers and mentors adapt their teaching methods to the apprentice’s learning style, they help the learner thrive and succeed. Over time, this creates skilled, motivated employees who become valuable assets to the business.
Take the Next Step
At Blue Lion Training Academy, we work with employers to create VARK-based training programmes that support apprentices from day one. Get in touch to discuss how we can help your apprentices develop into confident, skilled, and committed members of your team.
Why not take the VARK Quiz to find out what learning style suits you best?
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