Honey And Mumford Learning Style

H championy And Mumford Learning portIt is normally mootd that closely pack nominate a orientation with regards to interacting with, taking in and processing education to allow them to scan (Smith, 2003). Different people adopt disparate discipline styles where an optimum style allows the individual to learn take up. The concept of individualised reading styles has gained a great deal of popularity in recent years unceasingly since the idea was proposed in the 1970s. To booking, on that point has been a massive abundance of trys that brush aside be performed to assess a soulfulnesss reading style (Sprenger, 2003).The project is split into two portionsPart A To secern and analyze my nurture style picks by dint of various questionnaires the VARK chiffoniervas, H singley and Mumford encyclopedism style, Myer Briggs Type exponent (MBTI) and Belbins team up inventory. Prem and Phil stated that Learning shanghais performance beca mathematical function all per formance quarter be meliorated through and through reading. (Prem Phil, 2008). Thus, this allows me to gain an understanding of who I am as a learner and how this association may affect my performances, twain individually or at bottom a team environment.Part B To discuss my psycheality fount and how my learning style may affect my c atomic number 18er choices. However, it is worth noting that although individualality is a vi equal to(p) contributor to learning, it is unman historic period fit to define (Davies, 2008). Sigmund Freud used the analogy of an iceberg to explain the complexity of human race personality by suggesting that closely of the personality is hidden out of plenitude under water (Freud, 2003). Hence, identifying ones personality is not an easy t pack, and mental tests should lone(prenominal) be used as a starting point rather than as a way of life to book definite judgements (Bayne, 1997). Nonethe little, my results get out give a general idea of a public life field that most intimately match my personality and strengths.Part 1 Who I am as a learner?1.1 VARK TestThe VARK test is one of the most commonly used models to musical accompanimenter identify an individuals preference for receiving and analysing organic evolution with regards to learning. It stop help people to develop plusal learning strategies. There be iv modes for people to use, such as visual, aural, read/write and kinaesthetic (VARK, 2009). It is a frame guide to assess a persons learning style.The results of the VARK test (Appendix A) suggest that my strengths in a learning context rest on my aural skills. I arrive a strong preference for aural ground learning since I alike(p) to listen to others during discussion to gain a dissimilar perspective which allows me to understand more(prenominal) of the topic being discussed. My conclave gibe admits with this by saying Although Yin vocal is normally quiet during chemical group activities, she is an dynamic listener of other peoples views and cares about other peoples thoughts, (Vicky, 2010).Another part of the test results that I situationly agree with is that my written/reading skills quite weak and isnt my like method of learning. Having only recently moved to study in the UK, English is not my prototypal language which could explain why this type of learning is not one of my main strengths, although my proficiency is improving a lot. Since, the western educational system places a lot of emphasis on reading and writing, I hope that I get out gain a lot of improvement in this learning prospect as era goes on with added practice.However, I am a bit surprised by my low target on my kinesthetic skills. I exhaust invariably thought that I am someone that learns well when given the chance to experience something via a mountains on flack. For example, I find that I am able-bodied to pick up modernistic skills easily (i.e. badminton) when I am able to phys ically try it out rather than vertical reading from a book on how to play.1.2 Honey and Mumford Learning StyleThe Honey and Mumfords (1992) Learning Style identifies and categorises an individuals learning style. There are four-spot possible styles an activist, reflecting telescope, theorist and pragmatist, with a total of eighty questions in the test (Honey and Mumford, 1992). concord to the results of the Honey and Mumford learning style questionnaire (Appendix B) I adopt a heights reflector mentality. I agree with the majority of the description of the reflector which I believe amply describes me. A Reflector is a too-careful person who prefers to take a back plaza in group discussions (Honey and Mumford, 1992). I like to listen to other peoples views forrader I fetch to conclusions and take my time before making any decisions. macrocosm less imperative and tending to hold back from participation, I believe that I allow ply well and learn more efficiently if put al most an activist, as one would be able to encourage me to draw rein situations via a more head on approach. This would enhance my participation in group activities and discussions.In agreement with my VARK results, the Honey and Mumford test suggests that I am a unspoiled listener which is one of the strengths of a reflector. I in full moon agree with this since I have always been someone that likes to listen to e very(prenominal)one in the group thoughtfully. This gives me an prospect to gain different perspectives from different angles before I roll in the hay to conclusions.However, a possible weakness that I tell in myself by being a reflector is that I spend a long time when performing rectify tasks. For example, during my last assignment, it took me in pleonastic of two months to complete it as I was dwelling too a great deal on the preparation stage. I spent too long researching information before I finally began writing my assignment which is due to my care with r egards to deciding how to write it.Although I do show a vigilant mentality, I dont fully agree with the description that a person with reflector behavior never likes to take risks. I occasionally like to mensuration out of my comfort zone to experience things that I have never experienced before to broaden my have got companionship. For example, I chose to leave my shell and familiar surroundings in Hong Kong to study in the UK. I overly like to take up activities and hobbies that I have never move before.1.3 Myers Briggs Type IndicatorThe Myer Briggs type Indicator (MBTI) is a questionnaire used to identify an individuals personality type based on Carl Jung theories. MBTI categorises individuals into two functions, such as extraversion or introversion which is the preference in which an individual prefers to leave their energy (Madeline Rebecca, 1988). For example, one that likes to direct their energy to deal with outer things, situations or other people is deemed to hav e a preference for extraversion. Conversely, a person that likes to deal with ideas, information, explanations or the inner world, then their preference is introversion.The results of the MBTI (Appendix C) suggest that I have a dominant introverted function, with a high preference for introverted sensing as show by my high score in ISFJ. These results show that I like to listen to others and to absorb as much information as possible in a particular situation, to expand my k nowledge and to make a clear understanding of a topic. These compliment well with my results from the Honey and Mumford test mentioned above.The results excessively suggest that I am a hard running(a) individual, which I feel describes me well. I like to start early and ensure that I perform tasks to the better(p) of my ability. Regarding my academic life, I tend to study at least quintette hours a day. I alike begin my research for assignments long before the deadline. For example, although this profession al project is due for submission in April 2010, I have been preparing and doing the necessary reading since October 2009.The MBTI results as well as suggest that I have an great preference for extraverted feeling, as exhibit by my high ESFJ score. I am someone that likes to focus on building harmony in the world around me and build positive relationships. Also, I always measure out other peoples contributions during work or other activities. My previous employer s caution Sung Yin is a very personable individual that is popular with the customers and staff which makes a very positive atmosphere around the place, (Mrs Poon, 2008).I volition always try to persuade people to agree with my views if their opinions are different to mine. However, I always conduct to be careful not to offend those around me while trying to do so. Briggs Myers stated that although ESFJs are friendly and sympathetic, they are very persevering and insist that others share the same views as them. (Myers , 1995).1.4 Belbin team InventoryThe Belbin Team Inventory is a test used to forecast insight into a persons behavioural tendency in a team environment (Furnham, Steele Pendleton, 1993). The test allows us the opportunity to determine not only our individual aptitude strengths, but also gives an awareness of our position indoors a team and how we are expected to contribute. It scores people based on how strongly they express traits from nine different team roles. (Belbin, 1981).According to my Belbin test results (Appendix D), I have a major preference for a role as a shaper within a team. A shaper contains behavioural traits that cor act to my results from the MBTI. For example, a shaper displays a admit to succeed and to overcome obstacles which complements my liking to fulfil my ambitions and follow my clear goals. Although I display reflector singularitys, I also see myself as a combative individual that thrives on squash and challenges, which forms the basis of the sha per role. My high school P.E teacher wrote on my school report Sung Yin has demonstrated her competitive side during badminton class and has the necessary personality and entrust to depart a redeeming(prenominal) player in the sport in future, (Mr. Yeung, 2001).The results also show that I am a monitor evaluator suggesting that I am an individual that likes to evaluate all options before coming to a conclusion, which allows me to make accurate judgements. This agrees with my Honey and Mumford test results which say that I am one who likes to gain different perspectives in discussion before making decisions (being a reflector).Finally, the test results also consider me to have a preference for a medical specialist role that displays single mindedness and dedication. These are traits that I agree with since I am a rather stubborn person that doesnt like to change my mind once I have my mind set on something. Mr Robinson, my previous employer said Sung Yin is a very compulsive pe rson with a clear path with where she wants to be and is un in all probability that she will be swayed from it, (Mr. Robinson, 2007). I am always dedicated to my tasks at hand and always give my best to do them as well as I suffer. This has allowed me to develop my skills and knowledge to a level that means I hobo give a recyclable contribution within a team.Despite what I feel is a fairly accurate judgement of my preferential roles within a team, I do not fully agree with a resource investigator being my least preferred role. This is because I believe that I am a communicative person which is a find out trait of the resource resource investigator. As demonstrated by previous test results, I am a person that inducees strong aural skills. Despite regularly adopting a cautious approach to group discussion activities (in line with my reflector personality), I like to ask questions and participate in activities once I feel comfortable nice to express my views once I have gauged o ther peoples viewpoints.Part 2 Implications for passage choice2.1 Lifelong LearningEven from a unseasoned age, I have always been aware of the importance of learning new things to broaden my own knowledge base having been constantly reminded by my parents to work hard till old, and to learn till old. With an ever changing ships beau monde and increasing demand for talent in any professional career, it is required that an individual should not only acquire new skills, but to also constantly upgrade these skills to meet challenges set by the changing work environment. This is the act of life-long learning which is the deliberate progression throughout life of an individual, where our knowledge is constantly being expanded which allows us to effectively survive in society (Peter, jennet and Shelagh, 1998). The essentiality of life-long learning has been well documented heretofore as early as the 17th century where Comenius wrote that no age is too late to begin learning. And that one should never make the luxate of standing still in terms of skill acquisition (Comenius, 1996). finished my practical experience and life in general, I have come to the realization that continuous learning is a necessity to maintain a competitive advantage over the legion(predicate) individuals that seek the same career opportunities as me. Hence, I search for any opportunities to improve myself through life-long learning.With my desire to improve, I have recently resigned from my art to study my bachelors degree in Northumbria University. Prior to my resignation and subsequent move to partake in full time studies, I worked three years in the Bank of chinaware as a Customer Service Officer (Appendix E). During that time, I was working full-time, while studying odd-job(prenominal) during evenings by attending studying classes. The part-time study has allowed me to develop many key fruit skills to heighten my proficiency in doing my job in minimal time. This is historic be cause of the current unstable and competitive job market. It has now become a requirement for me to identify a clear career path for me to pursue and then to develop my knowledge towards the relevant areas to fulfil the needs of my future employers. I am now studying an International Business Management degree course with the inclination to achieve a future career in the business sector. Life-long learning will help me provide a solid base for the development of essential negotiable skills (as discussed later) that would stick to me throughout life and to aid me in the progression towards my career goals. It is also of the essence(predicate) for making me a kick downstairs person. After all it is the bottom rung of the ladder of personal development. (Peter, Jenny and Shelagh, 1998). 2.2 Career ChoiceHaving conducted various learning style tests on myself, I have been able to gain a better understanding of my learning preferences, personality and environments where I am liable( predicate) to thrive upon. It is expected that keen an individuals learning style preference may help that person to pass a possible career path that is best suited for them, or even influence that person towards certain career choices. Indeed, it is common for managers to use questionnaires to identify ideal personality traits in their candidates that would most probably be suited for their jobs which would aid them in the selection process. However, it is worth noting that human behaviour is super complex, and such tests may not necessarily give an accurate or thorough assessment of an individuals personality (Freud, 2001). Hence, results of these tests should not be held commanding and should only be used as a guideline to aid a person with regards to making key decisions such as possible career paths to take. Despite obvious drawbacks with victimization these tests, I agree with most of the suggestions make by them regarding my learning preferences and some aspects of my p ersonality. In terms of employment, through my practical experiences, I have developed a strong desire to pursue a career in Marketing. The skills I have acquired to date have largely influenced my interest towards this career path which, together with my personality, has made me consider that I possess the raw foundations to succeed in the merchandising sector. In a survey carried out by Honey and Mumford, it was found that the majority of managers preferred employees that are reflectors for Marketing jobs a trait that they believe would bring the biggest success to their company. Having carried out a Honey and Mumford test on myself, it was terminated that I am a strong reflector, which makes me aptly worthy for Marketing.Reflectors such as myself likes to adopt a cautious approach during group activities. This means that I tend to take an initial back seat in group discussions, preferring to obtain different viewpoints before making key decisions. Being cautious, can also invo lve thinking forrader in anticipation of possible obstacles. With marketing jobs, it is distinguished not to rush into decisions without first thinking and planning ahead. This is because, with the nature of the type of work, it is inevitable that there will be lean periods so hence, it is especially wise to be vigilant for such periods and to have a plan to act accordingly. For example, a part of planning ahead is anticipation of changes in the markets and finding new products to promote. It is weighty to be aware that the best marketing entrepreneurs are always facial expression for the next big money marker. They are always planning ahead (Scott Brooks, 2004). Hence, having a cautious approach to things can be a good trait as it means that I am less likely to make wrong decisions due to rushing into things and take necessary precautions. My Belbin results that conclude that I have a strong preference towards a varan evaluator who likes to evaluate all options before coming t o conclusions adds further support of my suitability for a Marketing career.The ability to remain calm is one of the most sought after personality traits in the Retail profession, (John, 2007). insisting can come in different ways, for example, when dealing with unhappy customers who are dissatisfied with the products sold to the It is the job of the marketer to deal with the problem and to cure the customers opinion of the company. Hence, to achieve this, it is essential to remain calm under pressure when dealing with these situations. With marketing jobs, it is also important to be able to respond well and appropriately to strict targets and deadlines that are set and to work towards them, which can also lead to pressure building up. My Belbin test results suggest that I am suited towards a shaper role which is another yard why I feel that a Marketing career is suitable for me. Shapers are adept at performing under pressurising situations and with the added drive to succeed. Th is is important since there is a lot of competition within the market. Only when you have your client on your side, are you able to effectively get what you want. (John, 2007). I believe this quote highlights what a career in Marketing is fundamentally all about. Success within the field of Marketing and Retail is highly dependent on your clients or customers which means that good people skills allowing you to yoke effectively with both colleagues and customers is essential. On a personality level, it is advantageous to be a likeable person which can involve being a pleasant individual with a cheery disposition. You are more likely to be able to negotiate better if your client likes you, (Scott Brooks, 2004). My MBTI results have exposit me as having a strong preference towards extroverted feeling which means that I like to build positive relationships with people around me and to create harmony around me. This, in my opinion has contributed largely to me being a personable indivi dual. The benefits of this personality trait are two-fold. Firstly, I would be able to sell my products to customers more easily since they are likely to find me a pleasant person. Secondly, I am more likely to be on the right side of my work colleagues and so they may be more likely to offer me their help. Having identified a career field that best suit my personality as based on my personality tests, I seek to achieve a future career as a Marketing manager. A job of this kind would allow me the responsibility to make key decisions that will influence the success of the company. I crave the opportunity to manage a team, and to give a major contribution to the company that I work for. A self-made career as a Marketing manager demands certain personality traits in addition to those mentioned above. For example, it is important that a Marketing Manager (Appendix F) is one that, not only is able to make accurate judgement, but also needs to stand by these judgements and not be too eas ily influenced by other peoples words. In other words, they need to be prepared to ignore naysayers, even if its those that are closest to them. (Scott Brooks, 2004). Hence, being brave and also single minded can be seen as a requirement in this sense. The Belbin test results have identified me as being a specialist where the key characteristic of this role is single mindedness. With me being a naturally stubborn person who doesnt usually change my mind having made my decisions, I believe I am suitable for this particular career choice.2.3 Transferable skillsIn addition to the right personality and job specialized skills, a wise employer will also look to see what transferable skills a perspective employee can offer. The term transferable skills simply refers to a set of generic skills in which an individual needs in order to be effective members of a flexible, adaptable and competitive work force and for life-long learning. At the heart of it all, most employers are looking for pe ople with common skills and characteristics. (Phil OReilly, 2009). Unlike job specific skills, transferable skills can be used in many ways, gained through past experiences. They are skills that can be used in a variety of jobs and situations. In order to be successful in Marketing, there is a repertoire of skills that are required for me to effectively do my job which include time management, people skills, leadership, teamwork and good organisational skills, amongst others.Marketing jobs rely on the ability to sell products through interaction with a variety of different customers. Hence, good communication skills are essential. As identified by my VARK test results, I have strong aural skills that would be especially useful in Marketing since the job demands that I have a good understanding of customers needs. Being a good listener, and also someone that likes to see things from different perspectives, this would allow me to communicate effectively with my clients. My ability to communicate well has been greatly developed through my past employment as a Customer Service Representative at the Bank of China and closed-door tutor, teaching Maths and various languages to children. Therefore, good communication now represents one of my key strengths. I am tri-lingual heavy(a) me versatility in my communication skills allowing me to berate with a wider customer range. Good presentation skills is also an important aspect of communication skill that is required in my future career since it is likely that It would be needed when promoting new products for instance. Fortunately, my presentational skills have been greatly deepen over time through past experience in giving presentations during my past employment and current studies. Having a good understanding of the products that I am promoting and any new products on the market is also very important in Marketing. Hence, it is necessary to have good research skills and also to have an open mind with regards to le arning new material. Being a reflector means that I happy to absorb information from many different angles and use it to make my decisions, while being a specialist as identified by my Belbin test results suggests that I have a natural eagerness to learn and expand my knowledge in topics at hand. As I am likely to be working within a team in my workforce with similar targets, there is no doubt that good teamwork skills are a requirement. I believe that I possess good teamwork capabilities having already been in employment where good teamwork is a must, such as working with my colleagues in the promotion and deriving of oecumenical financial plans during my previous job. I also actively partake in various teamwork sports that have allowed me to effectively build on my teamwork skills. It is my target to achieve a career as a Marketing manager in future, which will demand additional skills in order to be successful such as leadership and ability to motivate myself and others within m y team. Being a Marketing manager will mean that I will receive greater responsibility, managing a team or making key decisions that will affect company success. Although I believe that I possess an ideal personality to undertake such a role in a company, I feel that I will need to improve myself further before I am ready. With regards to transferable skills, I believe my biggest weakness lies in my leadership qualities, being a less assertive individual that likes to hold back from participation in group activities. I understand that if I am to be a good leader, I will need to improve this aspect by playing a more prominent role in group activities and essentially stamping my authority. I do not fully agree with the notion that leadership is a quality that cant be taught, and some people are ripe born leaders. I feel that leadership is a skill that can be improved through life-long learning and experience hence I will thrive to improve myself in this respect. As with all skills, t hey need to be learnt and no-one is born with them. (Phil OReilly, 2009). ConclusionLife-long learning is an essential process for me to learn new skills and also to improve existing ones. It is also highly important for my personal development towards being a better person, and one that is able to adapt to an ever changing world. The constant acquirement of new transferable skills is also vital for career progression and to give myself a competitive advantage over those thriving for the same opportunities as myself. By using a variety of different tests, I have gained an appreciation of my own personality, learning preferences and strengths. This information, together with my interests makes me ideally suited for a future career in the Marketing field.