We all have likes and dislikes when it comes to the places where we learn, train and develop best. Some people do great in the quiet calm of a library, while others thrive in the lively back-and-forth of a group discussion. In this post, we'll look at different types of learning environments and help you figure out which one works best for you. Where our Discovering your learning style blog post delved into preferred forms of training, here we look at the environments that keep you focused and motivated. The one consistent when it comes to learning is that we are all time-poor – so let's jump right in.

Quiet, individual spaces

Visual, auditory, or reading style learners are all candidates for this learning environment. Online learning will always be a perfect match for this preferred learning environment, with notifications silenced.

For those who prefer solitude and silence, quiet, individual spaces are a godsend. You do not need to be nestled in a cosy corner of a library or curled up in your favourite armchair at home, but you may just need a complete lack of distraction to be engrossed in your studies. This environment allows you to focus intently on your work without the distractions of chatter or external stimuli. Even if you don’t consider yourself an introvert, you may find yourself easily sidetracked by noise or the presence of others, so this might be your ideal learning setup.

Collaborative group settings

Great for visual, auditory and tactile learners, group settings are incredibly flexible learning spaces. Online collaborations and networking tools mean we can still learn without physically being in the room, without losing the benefit of the group setting.

On the other hand, some learners thrive on the energy and dynamism of group settings. If you're the type who loves bouncing ideas off others and engaging in lively discussions, collaborative environments might be your cup of tea. Group projects, study sessions, and workshops provide opportunities to learn from your peers, share insights, and tackle challenges together. Just be sure to choose your study buddies wisely.

Online from home

Self-paced learning is perfect for the online from home environment, with self-paced learning being a style that appeals to many different learners.

In the age of post-Covid hybrid work, learning has transcended the boundaries of physical spaces, resulting in somewhat nomadic digital workspaces. With online courses and virtual classrooms, you can now learn from the comfort of your own home. This is particularly appealing for those who enjoy flexibility and the ability to learn at their own pace. Many people find that the time they save commuting can be maximised by starting their days early or finishing later, perhaps even picking up again after dinner, without risking burn-out.

In a traditional classroom or training facility

For centuries, classrooms and training facilities have been the staples of education. These structured environments provide a dedicated space for learning, complete with instructors, resources, and a curriculum. If you appreciate the guidance and support of a teacher and the camaraderie of classmates, this traditional setting might be the way to go. These environments inherently create a structure, and even a formality that some of us need to feel as though we are making the best of our time.

*Visual, auditory, tactile, or reading style learners can all benefit from a physical classroom, but lifestyles and responsibilities away from work or study may make it harder to attend in person.*

Outdoors or in unconventional settings

Great for tactile or auditory learners.

This learning environment may map back to our hands-on learning style. For the adventurous types, the great outdoors or unconventional settings can be invigorating learning environments. Studying in an environment that is highly relevant to your subject (like botany in a lush garden, learning about history at a museum, or practicing photography on a scenic hike) will also help the visual learner – unless you don’t like distraction. These unconventional settings can breathe new life into your learning experience and provide hands-on opportunities to apply your knowledge.

From solitude to socialisation

Along with understanding your learning style, effective learning is finding an environment that works for you. If you’re not sure, or haven’t had the opportunity for much training, experimenting with different settings allows you to discover where you feel most comfortable and engaged. Whether you prefer the solitude of a quiet space, the buzz of a group setting, or the freedom of online learning, remember that there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Embrace your individuality, and don't be afraid to try something new.

We are committed to bringing learning to you that is not just motivating and inspiring, but that removes barriers to your professional development, whatever they are. Get in touch with our training team at training@arteri.com.au to find out how we can tailor training to your distinct learning style.

Discovering your ideal learning environment - from solitude to socialisation