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Now In: Resource Center | Information | 4 Foundational Types of Learners

4 Foundational Types of Learners

Learner types can be considered a more of a learning "personality" than a learning style. Learning type involves organizational style, personality, and ways of dealing with information rather than how individuals process information.

Concrete Sequential:

Concrete sequential learners tend to be very straight-forward and down to earth in their approach to life. Concrete sequential individuals are particularly good at working systematically, establishing routines and processes, being in tune with expectations, paying close attention to details and following a schedule or plan.

Concrete sequential learners are typically:

organized
factual
practical
task-oriented
predictable
orderly
thorough
detailed

Conversely, concrete sequential people often struggle with:

casual discussion
working in groups
functioning in a disorganized environment
making sense of abstract ideas
using their imagination and questions that don’t require a black and white answer

Abstract Sequential:

Abstract sequential learners are naturally very objective and like to debate. Abstract sequential individuals are very good at gathering data, analyzing ideas, analyzing information and research.

Abstract sequential learners are typically:

logical
scholarly
analytical
rational
theoretical
academic
argumentative

Conversely, concrete sequential people often struggle with:

sharing emotions
being sentimental
being diplomatic
allowing others time to speak
repetition
rules
time constraints

Abstract Random:

Abstract random learners naturally attract other people because of their strong interpersonal skills. Abstract random individuals are very good at listening to others, paying attention to emotions, conflict resolution, building rapport, and focusing on themes.

Abstract sequential learners are typically:

imaginative
thematic
colorful
flexible
empathetic
emotional
interpretive
very sensitive

Conversely, abstract sequential people often struggle with:

having to explain themselves
remaining focused on one thing
dealing with criticism
providing details
unfriendly people
competition

Concrete Random:

Concrete random learners are good at thinking fast on their feet, being accepting of others, discovering creative ways to solve problems and complete tasks, thinking outside of the box, identifying options and solutions, and providing inspiration to others. Concrete random individuals are driven to learn more, know more and take risks.

Concrete random learners are typically:

daring
divergent
original
independent
curious
intuitive
investigative

Conversely, concrete random people often struggle with:

restrictions and limitations
routines
having no options
re-doing work
formal reports
explaining how they got an answer

More Information

Visit the website of Cynthia Tobias for information on types of learners. We highly recommend her books "The Way They Learn" and "Every Child Can Succeed" for all educators and parents.