Description of the Questionnaire

The VARK questionnaire was created by Neil Fleming in 1992 and aims to identify individual learning preferences. The tool evaluates four main ways of processing information: the Visual type, which relies on the use of images, diagrams, colors, and maps for understanding; the Aural type, which focuses on learning through listening, discussion, and verbal explanation; the Read/Write type, which is expressed through a preference for texts, notes, articles, and lists; and the Kinesthetic type, which involves learning through experience, practical application, and example. Its standard form consists of sixteen multiple-choice questions, in which each question allows the selection of one or more answers, depending on what best describes the participant.

Analysis and Use of Data

The answers are converted into scores for each of the four categories—V, A, R, and K. An individual may display a unique profile, with a strong preference for only one type, or a multimodal profile, with two or more modes having similar scores. The analysis of the data can be used to adapt teaching materials and instructional methods, improve individual learning strategies, and conduct research studies examining the relationship between learning styles and academic performance.

Purpose

The main purpose of the questionnaire is to identify the way in which an individual prefers to receive and process information, in order to increase the efficiency of learning, enhance self-awareness as a learner, and facilitate instructional design in groups with diverse needs.

Calibration

The scoring system is based on matching each answer to one of the four types, and the total score for each type is obtained by summing the relevant answers. The interpretation of the results indicates that a higher score in one type suggests a dominant preference, while similar scores in several types indicate a multimodal preference. The scale has been used in multiple studies and its validity and reliability have been documented.

References

Fleming, N.D., & Mills, C. (1992). Not Another Inventory, Rather a Catalyst for Reflection. To Improve the Academy, 11, 137–155. Leite, W.L., Svinicki, M., & Shi, Y. (2010). Attempted Validation of the Scores of the VARK: Learning Styles Inventory With Multitrait–Multimethod Confirmatory Factor Analysis Models. Educational and Psychological Measurement, 70(2), 323–339. VARK Learn Limited. (n.d.).