Types of learners (Peter Honey and Alan Mumford, 1986)

a. Theorists

Theorists learn best when:

• an activity is backed up by ideas and concepts that form a model, system or theory;
• in a structured situation with a clear purpose;
• they have the chance to question and probe;
• required to understand a complex situation. Theorists learn least:
• in situations that emphasize emotions and feelings;
• when activities are unstructured or ambiguous;
• when asked to act without knowing the principles or concepts involved

They need to be convinced. They tend to love statistics, models and applying concepts theoretically.

b. Pragmatists

Pragmatists learn best when:

• there is an obvious link between the topic and a current need;
• they are shown techniques with clear practical advantages;
• they can try things out with feedback from an expert;
• they can copy an example, or emulate a role model. Pragmatists learn least when:
• there is no immediate practical benefit;
• there are no clear guidelines on how to do it;
• it appears to be ‘all theory’.

They are not interested in abstract concepts. They like to see demonstrations of real-world application. Pragmatists need to see a link between what they are learning and the real world. Pragmatists also need clear guidelines for assessments, and to be clear what is required.

c. Reflectors

Reflectors learn best when:

• able to stand back and observe first;
• given time to think and investigate before commenting or acting;
• given an opportunity to review and reflect what has happened;
• doing tasks without tight deadlines.

enjoy distance learning because they have time to observe information. Reflectors learn least when:

• forced to take a lead in a group;
• doing things without preparation;
• rushed by deadlines.

They spend time surfing the internet for more information rather than buckling down to studying or writing assignments.

d. Activists:

Activists learn best when:

• involved in new experiences, problems and opportunities;
• thrown in at the deep end;
• working with others in problem solving, games, role-playing exercises;
• able to lead a group.

Activists learn least when:

• listening to lectures or reading long explanations;
• reading, writing and thinking on their own; analysing and interpreting lots of data;
• following precise instructions
• Distance learning as it does not involve interaction with learners.