Introduction
The modern college is a diverse environment that brings together students and teachers from various backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. However, in the past, higher education was a privilege and was intended to train affluent people’s sons for professions in law, medicine, and the clergy. As a result, higher education for generations remained almost inaccessible to the vast majority of people. Many generations have struggled to increase access to colleges and universities, and in modern times this has finally been achieved. In today’s world, education has become more accessible and diverse. Modern trends toward quality, inclusive, and diverse education have led to the fact that more and more attention is paid to students, their preferences, and their characteristics. It becomes essential to study the kinds of students and their ways of assimilation of information, needs and interests.
Kinds of Students by Learning Styles
There are several ways to classify students, which help to consider their individual needs and abilities to ensure the most comfortable and productive learning environment. The first is related to the theory of learning styles and proposes that students have different preferences for how they learn and process information (Robinson 12). According to this theory, understanding and accommodating these learning styles can lead to more effective learning experiences. This theory is known as the VARK model and was developed by Neil Fleming. According to this theory, four kinds of college students by learning styles can be distinguished: visual, aural, reading/writing, and kinesthetic learners.
The first kind of college student associated with learning styles is visuals. This means that such students absorb information more efficiently and effectively when it is presented graphically. This may include figures, maps, charts, videos and images (Mirza and Khawar). For such students, educators can include visual elements in their lectures and assignments. Presentations, videos, and infographics can be helpful for visual learners in the process of education (Mirza and Khawar). Providing opportunities for students to visually represent their learning, such as through posters or concept maps, can also be beneficial.
Another kind of college student associated with learning styles is aural mode learners. It includes those students who better absorb the information that is heard or spoken. They learn best via lectures, group discussions, audio recordings, speaking, and talking things out (Mirza and Khawar). Talking out loud, as well as talking to oneself are examples of how aural students can remember information. They may also sometimes repeat what has been said earlier or pose a previously answered question because it may be important for them to say what they have heard in order to understand it better. To accommodate auditory learners, educators can incorporate discussions, debates, and podcasts into their lessons.
Another kind of college student based on style of learning is people with kinesthetic modality. The perception of knowledge by such students is best achieved through experience and practice. It does not matter whether they are simulated or real (Mirza and Khawar). This kind of student prefers a more practical way of learning and for them, activities such as demonstrations, simulations, case studies, practical exercises, and others will be more effective. (Mirza and Khawar). Individuals with this tendency learn via the experience of doing things, and they value their own backgrounds.
The last kind of student, according to the VARK model, is read and write learners. For such people, the preferred way of assimilating knowledge is to present it in the form of words. This choice places a premium on text-based input and output. Reading and writing in all formats are the most helpful for these students. This is especially true for manuals, reports, essays, and assignments (Mirza and Khawar). People who favor this mode of learning are frequently interested in PowerPoint, Internet articles and websites, lists, diaries, dictionaries, thesauri, quotes, and other types of textual communication.
Despite its widespread popularity, the theory of learning styles has been subject to criticism. Some studies have suggested that there is little evidence to support the idea that accommodating learning styles leads to improved learning outcomes (Rogowsky). In addition, the majority of students, 68%, do not have clear preferences in learning styles (Rogowsky). While the theory of learning styles may have its limitations, it is still important for educators and students to recognize and accommodate these differences and apply a variety of tasks and activities to achieve effective college learning. Providing students with the opportunity to learn in the way that suits them best can contribute to improving the quality of education.
Kinds of Students by Personal Experience
Personal experiences and circumstances influence college students, their ability to learn, and their patterns of interaction with other students and faculty. This classification is based on the college students’ previous experiences and their current personal circumstances. The traditional student is the first kind of student based on personal experience. These students often range in age from 18 to 22 and begin their studies immediately after graduating from high school (ER Services). They frequently reside on or near the college and are full-time students. Traditional students are often academically engaged and pursue a full course load each semester.
Other kinds of students are non-traditional and they differ from the traditional ones in their goals and experiences. These students are typically older, often in their late twenties or thirties, and have already had some life experience before returning to college (ER Services). They may be working full-time, raising a family, or both, and often attending college part-time while balancing other responsibilities. Non-traditional students may have different goals for attending college, such as career advancement, personal enrichment, or pursuing a new career path. Commuter students are another type of student in colleges. These students live off-campus and typically commute to campus each day for their classes. Commuter students frequently have hectic schedules and may find it difficult to participate in campus events outside of class (ER Services). They may also feel estranged from the university community as a result of their off-campus position.
International students are a distinct group of college students from many nations and cultures. These students frequently speak many languages and may have difficulties as a result of language obstacles, cultural differences, and adjusting to a new setting (ER Services). Foreign students contribute a variety of viewpoints and experiences to college campuses, and their presence may enhance the academic experience for all students.
One more kind is transfer students who have completed some college coursework at another institution before transferring to a new college or university. Through their experience of studying in other institutions, they bring a unique experience to the college staff, can share experiences with other students, and bring additional motivation and knowledge.
The diversity of college students adds to the learning process’s uniqueness and dynamic nature. Each type of student contributes their unique ideas and experiences to the classroom, and this variety may benefit every student in college society. Respect for the personal circumstances and experiences of students is an important part of quality modern education and can help create a more inclusive and supportive environment that meets the needs and goals of all students.
Kinds of Students by Motivation
One of the most important components of the successful and effective education of college students is motivation and orientation toward different aspects of life. This is an individual concept and differs significantly from student to student, however, there are basic directions that are common to most. These include goal, career, service, social, athletic and service motives (Meyer and Emery, 61). Goal-oriented students are focused on achieving specific objectives and are self-motivated. They may be highly motivated and organized and may be willing to put in extra effort to achieve their goals. Social-oriented students prioritize socializing and building relationships with others. They may be active in extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations and may be more interested in building their social network than in achieving academic success. These students had the hardest time transitioning to remote online learning during the lockdown period due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Career-oriented students are focused on preparing for their future careers. They may be interested in pursuing internships, co-op programs, or other work experience opportunities and may prioritize networking and building relationships with professionals in their field. The practical application of the acquired knowledge is a key area for career-oriented college students. Service-oriented are committed to making a positive impact on their communities and society. They may be involved in volunteer work, community service projects, or social justice initiatives. Athletic-oriented students are highly involved in sports and athletics. They may be varsity athletes, intramural players, or fans of their school’s sports teams. Participation in sports activities may be the primary motivator for them to go to college and maintain their academic success.
It is important to note that many students may have multiple motives, and these may vary depending on the context and situation. The presence of a motivator helps to reduce the stress that many students may experience, especially during periods of exams and high workloads (Robinson et al., 10). Both students themselves and teachers can use these motives to stimulate the achievement of high academic results and goals without getting burned out.
Conclusion
Thus it becomes evident that there is no universal description of college student kinds. However, each student is responsible for understanding the diverse terrain of their peers and doing their part to create a comfortable learning environment for all. The college environment brings together a diverse range of students with varying learning styles, motivations, and orientations. By understanding the different kinds of college students, faculty, and students themselves can create an inclusive and supportive environment that meets the unique needs of each individual. Recognizing diversity and listening to the needs of students can lead to better communication, more effective teaching strategies, and a greater sense of community. Whether it is by accommodating different learning styles, providing resources for career development, or promoting social and cultural awareness, colleges can create a welcoming and inclusive institution that supports the success and growth of all students.
Works Cited
ER Services. “Types of Students“. ER Services, Web.
Meyer, Debra and Emery Alyssa. Teaching Motivation for Student Engagement. IAP, 2021.
Mirza, Munazza A., and Khawar Khurshid. “Impact of VARK learning model at tertiary level education.” International Journal of Educational and Pedagogical Sciences vol. 14, no. 5, 2020, pp. 354-361.
Robinson, Daniel et al. Learning Styles, Classroom Instruction, and Student Achievement. Springer Nature, 2022.
Rogowsky, Beth et al. “Providing instruction based on students’ learning style preferences does not improve learning.” Frontiers in Psychology vol. 11, 2020, p. 164, Web.