Learning Styles

More and more, people are recognizing the importance of this interface. The concept of emotional intelligence is one example of this interface. The concept of social intelligence is another. In the case of styles, we believe it is important to maintain the distinction between abilities and styles. Emotional intelligence may or may not represent a set of abilities. Styles do not represent a set of abilities, but rather a set of preferences. The distinction is important because abilities and preferences may or may not correspond, as we find in the case of someone who wants to be a creative writer but who just can't come up with the ideas.

In connection, most theorist negate the definition that learning styles is characterized by the presence of four basic categories such as visual (learning by seeing), aural or audial (learning by hearing), reading/writing (learning by processing text) and kinesthetic or practical (learn by doing).

The relationship of learning styles and emotional intelligence is the fact that it is part of the process of maturity. After religiously taking the Emotional Intelligence Test, I got an average of 60%. On the other hand, I am an interpersonal learner in the Multiple Intelligence Inventory.

In the learning styles, I am more inclined in dealing with people. While it is true that I am an extrovert person, I also enjoy group activities, sharing, collaboration, and team work. The traits of friendliness, understanding, empathy, and leadership are evident in my personality. After evaluating myself, I found out that learning is more enjoyable when done in an atmosphere of friendship, organization and group dynamics.

In my emotional intelligence, I was surprised that I exceeded the average level. This means that I can now deal with matters of emotions and feelings a lot better than before. My emotional intelligence is essential in dealing with people, maintaining harmonious relationships, empathy, and acceptance. Emotional maturity is also measured by emotional intelligence due to the fact that the level of understanding is evident in the actions a person is doing. Thus, the achievement of goals works hand in hand with emotional capability and the individual characteristics acquired through daily learning experiences.

However, the validity and culture-fairness of the tests is under siege. There are some factors to be considered to fully accept the results given. Intelligence tests – both reliable and valid tests have been constructed for measuring vocational aptitude and interests, personality attributes, and practical knowledge with respect to certain kinds of jobs. Thus, the purposes vary and are relative. Further, culture is an impediment in the eventual and factual interpretation of such tests. It is because some cultures are limited in terms of beliefs and practices. Thus, the exploration of the further skills and abilities are restraint within the prescribe norms of the culture or society in which people affiliate themselves.

All in all, I learned that my emotional intelligence and learning style are vital in becoming a competent individual. After knowing my limits and potentials, I have plans and opportunities for further development and growth.

Reference

Epstein, S. (1998). Constructive Thinking: The Key to Emotional Intelligence.

Westport, CT.: Praeger.

Sims, R.R. & Sims, S.J. eds. (1995).The Importance of Learning Styles:

Understanding the Implications for Learning, Course Design, and Education. Westport, CT.: Greenwood Press.

Sternberg, R.J. & Zhang, L. eds, (2001). Perspectives on Thinking, Learning and

Cognitive Styles. Mahwah, NJ.: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.