Styles of Learning and Thinking
The Style of Learning and Thinking (SOLAT) test identifies a student's preferred
brain hemisphere (left, right, or integrative) and related problem-solving learning style. The
Hemispheric functions of the brain are the foundation of the SOLAT tool. By looking at how
each hemisphere functions, it can be determined which one is dominant. It reveals a student's
preferred learning style and brain hemisphere for solving problems.
Definition
The differences in preference of the two hemispheres for retaining and processing of
information in one’s own style of learning and thinking is known as styles of learning and
thinking.
Variables
Left Hemisphere
For a long time, the left hemisphere—also known as the "dominant," "leading," or
"major" hemisphere—was the centre of attention since it was thought to be a region of the
brain where speech was localised and was thought to be primarily in charge of processing
language and planning. Neonatal investigations have shown that it is anatomically larger than
the right hemisphere. According to EEG data, it is generally thought to be more active than
the right hemisphere in adults. Activities psychologically associated with the left hemisphere
include speech, learning and analytical thinking. Sequential logical, variable, symbolic,
convergent production, and logic functioning are areas where the left hemisphere excels.
Right Hemisphere
The right hemisphere's neuronal capacity to handle complexity in information is very
high. This hemisphere matures before the left hemisphere, and in youngsters, the balance
between the two is different from that of an adult. While the left hemisphere excels at tasks
that call for fixation on a single mode of representation or execution, the right hemisphere has
, 2
a stronger ability to process multiple modes of information within a single cognitive task.
Right hemisphere-related psychological activity includes language, visual patterns, facial
identification, motor, creativity, music and problems.
Hemisphericity
The cerebral dominance of a person in retaining and processing information in his or
her unique manner of learning and thinking is known as hemisphericity. The human right
cerebral hemisphere is to be specialised for predominantly non-verbal holistic, concrete,
creative, analogic, and aesthetic operations, whereas the left cerebral hemisphere is to be
specialised for primarily verbal, analytical, abstract, temporal, and digital operations. Early in
infancy, the specialised functions of each hemisphere seem to be well lateralized and
established, and unless there is a specific intervention or lesion, they essentially remain
unchanged for the duration of a normal life span.
Styles
Styles of learning and thinking depend on an individual's cerebral dominance and
reflect the brain's hemisphericity function, influencing students' learning strategies and
information processing. Recognizing and developing thinking styles alongside ability levels
is crucial, yet often overlooked. Similar to abilities, styles are not fixed from birth but largely
shaped by environmental conditions, parental influence, and teaching methods. Individuals
may exhibit different preferred styles at different stages.
Learning Styles
Verbal
Right hemisphere: Understanding movements of action, talking while reading or
writing, learn best by instruction which uses visual presentation, likes to draw more pictures,
expression of feelings through music, dance, and poetry.