Understanding Learning Styles: What They Are & How They Support Successful Workplace Learning
For anyone embarking on professional development – whether through an apprenticeship, a short course, or workplace training – understanding how you learn best can make a dramatic difference to your confidence and progress. At Hawk Training, we know that learning isn’t ‘one-size-fits-all’. We believe that flexible, blended learning is central to every programme.
In this article, we explore what learning styles are and how understanding your learning preferences can enhance your training journey.
What Are Learning Styles?
“Learning styles” refers to the idea that people naturally prefer to receive and process information in different ways. One of the most well-known frameworks is the VARK model, which identifies four common preferences:
- Visual – diagrams, charts, imagery, demonstrations
- Auditory – discussion, lectures, listening
- Read/Write – text, notes, structured documents
- Kinesthetic – hands-on activities, real-world practice
Although there are many models, most share a core principle: tailoring learning environments to individual preferences may help some learners engage more deeply.
Learning Styles and Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity recognises that people naturally think, learn and process information in different ways. Conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia and others represent natural variations in human neurology – not deficits.
While “learning styles” and “neurodiversity” are not the same thing, they do intersect in meaningful ways.
Neurodivergent learners often have strong, consistent learning preferences. For example:
- Many dyslexic learners prefer visual and kinesthetic learning over dense text.
- ADHD learners may benefit from movement-based, hands-on, or fast-paced learning.
- Learners with Autism may prefer structured, written, or predictable formats.
Understanding learning preferences can help neurodivergent learners study more efficiently and advocate for their needs.
Learning Styles in Professional and Workplace Training
In apprenticeships and workplace training, understanding learning preferences can help learners:
- stay motivated
- reduce cognitive load
- retain information more easily
- manage study time effectively
- build confidence, especially when returning to learning after a gap
Workplace training naturally blends theory with hands-on practice, making it an ideal setting for experimenting with different learning strategies.
How Hawk Training Supports Diverse Learning Needs
Hawk Training’s programmes are built around flexible, blended, and inclusive learning, enabling every learner to engage in a way that suits them.
1. Multi-modal content delivery
Learners interact with videos, written materials, quizzes, discussions, workshops and real-world application – supporting all learning preferences and neurodiverse processing styles.
2. Work-based, hands-on learning
Real-world practice benefits kinesthetic learners and many neurodivergent learners who find experiential learning more intuitive than theoretical study.
3. Individual coaching and personalised support
Our Tutors all receive rigorous EDI training. This helps them to provide tailored guidance, supporting learners to build strategies that suit their learning preferences and neurocognitive profile.
4. Digital learning portals
Platforms like Aptem and Moodle allow learners to organise their learning in whichever format works for them – visual, structured, written, or interactive.
5. Accessibility and adjustments
Hawk Training works with learners to ensure reasonable adjustments and inclusive learning design are embedded throughout their journey, to help them to achieve.
At Hawk Training, inclusive, flexible, multi-modal learning is embedded into every programme. Whether you’re an apprentice, a manager developing leadership skills, or an organisation looking to upskill your workforce, our approach ensures every learner – neurodivergent or neurotypical – can succeed.
