There is a lot of talk in the training and development industry about the importance of considering individual learning styles when designing training programs. Many theories have tried to explain how learning styles affect learning outcomes. So, many training specialists find it imperative to identify trainees’ learning styles to best match the training method to the trainee. Given much of the evidence that measures of learning styles, or research methods using those measures, are flawed, what should trainers conclude about the need to consider learning styles?

One conclusion is that even though researchers haven’t found a definitive measure of learning styles, the way people take in information and learn is still an important training design consideration. What current researchers on the topic recommend is a balanced approach to instructional design. The match between content and the instructional method used to effectively teach that content may be more important than learning styles. Although we are in a unique place in history where multiple generations actively participate in the working population, it is still under debate whether there are meaningful differences in the way each generation learns.

While Millennials tend to be more familiar with learning online, older generations are not necessarily uncomfortable with technology. Nor does it mean that older generations learn differently. There is little evidence that generations learn differently or have a preferred learning style. What we do know, is that each generation’s values and experiences are shaped by the events that occur during their lifetime. These events had an impact not only on the lenses individuals use to make sense of their world, but also on their views about work, career goals, and learning.

It is important to note that despite some key differences between generations, not every person in a certain generation shares the same values, or thinks and learns similarly. The individual differences between generations will impact how they approach learning and training and development.