1. Chapter VII: Individual Differences in Learning
4. Thinking Styles
Bryan G. lagonilla
Thinking style is the characteristic way of processing information. It is the way one
acquires knowledge, acquires thoughts, forms views and opinions, applies one’s values, solves
problems, make plans, decisions, and expresses oneself to others.
People approach learning in a way that is natural to their inborn thinking style. Scientific
research identified two distinct groups of people whose thinking styles, and therefore also
learning needs, are antipodal: analytics and holistics.
Strong analytics (those who tend to use their left brain hemisphere) are people who enjoy
logic, details and follow sequential steps. They need frequent written feedback, and are often
good at mathematics and word games.
Strong holistics (right-brain processors), on the other hand, need to have an overall
picture before they can assimilate facts. These students need to understand why something is
important before learning it. Strong holistics tend to be good at the arts.
Professor Anthony Gregor, professor of curriculum and instruction at the University of
Connecticut, has divided thinking styles into four groups:
1. Concrete Sequential Thinkers tend tend to be based on reality. They process information
in an ordered, sequential, linear way. To them, reality consists of what they can detect
through their physical sense of sight, touch, sound, taste, and smell. They notice and

2. recall details easily and remember facts, specific information, formulas, and rules with
ease. “Hands on” is a good way for these people to learn.
2. Concrete Random Thinkers are experimenters. Like concrete sequential, they are based
on reality, but are willing to take more of a trial-and-error approach. Because of this, they
often make the intuitive leaps necessary for true creative thought. They have a strong nee
to find alternatives and do things on their own way. If you are a concrete random thinker,
use your divergent thinking ability. Believe that it’s good to see things from more than
one viewpoint. Put yourself in a positionto solve problems. But give yourself deadlines.
Accept your need for change.
3. Abstract Random Thinkers organize information through reflection, and thrive in
unstructured, people oriented environments. The ‘real’ world for abstract random learners
is the world of feelings and emotion. The AR’s mind absorb ideas, information, and
impressions and organizes them through reflection. They remember best if information is
personalized. They feel constricted when they are subjected to a very structured
environment. If you are an AR, use your natural ability to work with others. Recognize
how strong emotions influence your concentration. Build on your strength of learning by
association. Look at the big picture first. Be careful to allow yourself enough time to
finish the job. Remind yourself to do things through plenty of visual clues, such as
colored sticker pasted up where you will see them.
4. Abstract Sequential Thinkers love the world of theory and abstract thought. They like to
think in concepts and analyze information. They make great philosophers and research
scientist. Their thinking processes are logical, rational, and intellectual. A favorite
activity for abstract sequential thinkers is reading, and when a project needs to be

3. researched they are very thorough at it. Generally, they prefer to work alone rather than
in groups. If you are an AS, give yourself exercise in logic. Feed your intellect. Steer
yourself toward highly structured situations.