How do you overcome learning style conflicts in CPS?

1 Identify your own style

The first step to overcoming learning style conflicts is to understand your own preferences and strengths. There are many models and assessments that can help you identify your learning style, such as the Kolb Learning Style Inventory, the VARK Questionnaire, or the Honey and Mumford Learning Styles. These tools can help you discover how you prefer to learn new information, whether by doing, watching, reading, listening, or a combination of these. Knowing your own style can help you communicate your needs and expectations to others, as well as recognize your potential blind spots and biases.

2 Respect other styles

The second step is to respect and appreciate the diversity of learning styles in your CPS team. Different styles can bring different perspectives, insights, and skills to the problem-solving process, which can enhance creativity and innovation. However, they can also cause friction and frustration if they are not understood and valued. To respect other styles, you need to be open-minded, empathetic, and curious. You need to listen actively, ask questions, and give feedback. You also need to avoid making assumptions, judgments, or stereotypes based on learning styles.

3 Adapt your style

The third step is to adapt your style to suit the situation and the needs of your CPS team. Adapting your style does not mean changing who you are or compromising your values. It means being flexible, versatile, and willing to try new ways of learning and working. For example, if you are a visual learner, you might use diagrams, charts, or images to explain your ideas, but you might also try to use words, sounds, or gestures to appeal to other styles. Adapting your style can help you bridge gaps, build rapport, and create synergy with your CPS team.

4 Use multiple methods

The fourth step is to use multiple methods and formats to facilitate CPS. Using a variety of methods can help you cater to different learning styles, as well as stimulate different parts of the brain and enhance memory and retention. For example, you can use brainstorming, mind mapping, role-playing, storytelling, prototyping, or games to generate and evaluate ideas. You can also use different modes of delivery, such as verbal, written, visual, or tactile, to present and share information. Using multiple methods can help you engage and motivate your CPS team and make the process more fun and effective.

5 Seek feedback

The fifth step is to seek feedback from your CPS team and yourself. Feedback is essential for learning and improvement, as well as for resolving conflicts and building trust. You can seek feedback from your CPS team by asking for their opinions, suggestions, or concerns. You can also give feedback to your CPS team by acknowledging their contributions, offering praise, or providing constructive criticism. You can seek feedback from yourself by reflecting on your performance, identifying your strengths and weaknesses, and setting goals for improvement. Seeking feedback can help you monitor and adjust your learning style and your CPS process.

6 Keep learning

The sixth and final step is to keep learning and developing your learning style and your CPS skill. Learning is a lifelong and dynamic process that requires constant curiosity, experimentation, and evaluation. You can keep learning by exposing yourself to new information, experiences, and challenges. You can also keep learning by seeking mentors, coaches, or peers who can support, inspire, or challenge you. You can also keep learning by reviewing your feedback, celebrating your achievements, and learning from your mistakes. Keeping learning can help you overcome learning style conflicts and become a more creative and effective problem solver.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?