When we were doing the DevBootCamp prep work we all took this test to figure out what type of learner we are. Here is the test if you want to take it for yourself. My test scores were a 48 in abstract sequential, a 32 for abstract random, closely followed by 24 in concrete random, and lastly a 16 in concrete sequential. At the time this didn't mean much. I mean on the test site itself, it only give a sentence definition of what each means. This week, however, we are supposed to write this blog and they have given us an additional source of what all that mean. On this webpage we are given a table that tells us more about each thinking style. A lot of what falls under abstract sequential, and concrete random; such as wanting to be heard, working alone, experimentation, trial-and-error, and many more. I also see that I have a lot in common with abstract random but to a lesser extent; such as listening, focusing on the issues at hand, among others. I can see specific examples of these traits in my life.
So how do I make it so I can get the most out of these thinking styles? Well I am an abstract sequential thinker, I learn best at being able to work alone. What I have been doing for the past two weeks is that I complete the challenge (or most of them) by myself. This allows me to learn the material and spend as much time on it as I would like. I then pair up with someone and help or teach them about the exercise. I think teaching someone else helps reinforce the material.
This method has been working so far. But I need to work on some areas to become a more rounded learner. I need to start being more comfortable with learning along side someone else. I have a problem where if I am just thrown into a situation (when it comes to learning or problem solving), I feel rushed and like I am being pressured. In these times, I usually rely on my intuition to get me through them, which isn't always good because I don't take the time to analyze everything. I need to work on being able not feel pressured so that I am able to analyze everything. I also need to work on being able to communicate with my partner how I am feeling, and that I may need to 'step back' to clear my head and to think.