As I prepare for my student leader retreat next month, I appreciate utilizing the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) for program development. As a Type practitioner, I have long used the MBTI to facilitate the transition to college in my first-year seminar. I reintroduce Type in my leadership courses for comprehension of differences and strengths development.
Understanding new methods of instruction in the college or university can be challenging for any new student and is especially so for my students from small, rural high schools. Type assessment in the first-year seminar helps students understand their preferences for learning and methods that will enhance individual learning. Reviewing the principles of Type for my student leaders promotes understanding of diversity and differing work styles. These skills become important as they engage in event planning and classroom activities for different learners.
Breanne Potter describes one of my favorite MBTI activities, the Living Type Table (LTT). The LTT is a great practical exercise that gets students on their feet while demonstrating that learning and work style differences are real. The activity shows that Type is systematic by sorting participants based on responses to Type specific questions. For example:
When learning something new, do you like to: Talk out your thoughts? -OR- Keep your thoughts inside?
When learning something new, do your prefer: Solid facts? -OR- Intriguing Concepts?
Building the grid and moving into the 16 areas of the LTT is a fun activity that helps students define personal preferences in work and learning styles. Check with your Human Resources office to partner with a trained MBTI facilitator on your campus or seek a referral from the Association for Psychological Type.
