Are you an introvert or an extrovert, and does it affect how you learn?
Knowing whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert is about more than identity. It can help you harness the learning strategies you’re naturally inclined to excel in.
Ask anyone whether they’re an introvert or an extrovert, and it’s likely that they’ll give you a confident answer. Labelling ourselves as one or the other is second nature. From childhood, we’re told to pick a side, flouting our solidarity with “team shy” or “team loud” from the get-go.
But, are you making the most of this knowledge? When it comes to learning, acknowledging your personality type can help you play to your strengths.
Am I an introvert or an extrovert?
Before you scroll past this paragraph with unbridled confidence (“I know which one I am!” you say), stop for a second. It might be time to interrogate the label you likely gave yourself as a tween.
Are you really as introverted as you say? Or, if you deem yourself an extrovert, perhaps those habits have changed as you’ve aged? Take a moment to think about your behaviour over the past year alone. Have you felt comfortable during the isolation of COVID-19 lockdowns? Or have you found yourself endlessly depleted?
Introverts draw energy from solitude – feeling their best during, or immediately after down time. This might be you if a weekend inside reading books, bingeing TV and not seeing anyone except for your delivery driver sounds ideal.
Extroverts, on the other hand, fill their cup by socialising. If you get a buzz from hanging out in groups big or small, this may be you. It’s worth noting that extroverts will happily hop from one social engagement to the next – a nightmare for those of us who are introverted.
Still not sure? Take this quiz.
What about ambiverts?
Are you a little from column A and a little from column B? You’re not alone.
It’s estimated that ambiverts (those who are equal parts introvert and extrovert) make up 50% of the population.
Learning strategies for introverts
- Divide and conquer
Break down group assignments into tasks you can own. Tell your team you’ll be back in touch once you’ve done some research and then circle back. This will allow the solitude you crave. - Don’t be afraid to prep
Group discussions don’t have to be painful. Take a look at upcoming topics before class and do some research so that you can contribute even one point without feeling nervous. - Harness solo brainstorming
Solo brainstorming allows you to put your headphones on, get creative, and deep dive. It’s much like a group conversation, but without so many people.
Learning strategies for extroverts
- Get social
As an extrovert, you’ll be more likely to remember facts after chatting them through. So exchange phone numbers and social media handles with your classmates. Socialising is your superpower. - Remove distractions
Choose one hour per day in which you put your phone away (in your top drawer, in the key bowl, anywhere!) and knuckle down. Consider downloading a browser extension that blocks certain websites during this focus time. - Hone in on social down time
Take a look at your weekly calendar and note the periods in which you’re naturally the least socially active. Now, pencil in study time. If you’re not out, that’s your time to knuckle down.
No matter your personality type, your interests, or your career aspirations, Open Universities Australia can help you find the ideal course for your future. Explore thousands of courses from leading Australian universities right here, right now.
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