What is defined as an individual's preferred method of processing information?

The term that defines an individual's preferred method of processing information is "learning style." Learning styles refer to the various ways in which people learn and absorb information, whether through visual, auditory, kinesthetic, or other modalities. Understanding one's learning style can enhance educational experiences by aligning teaching methods with how a person best acquires knowledge.

While "learning strategy" relates to techniques used to facilitate learning, it does not specifically refer to the personal preferences of the learner. "Teaching technique" focuses on the methods employed by an instructor to convey information, rather than the learner's processing style. The "cognitive approach" is a broader term that encompasses various theoretical perspectives regarding mental processes but is not specifically tied to individual preferences in learning. Thus, the correct choice of "learning style" emphasizes the importance of recognizing and adapting to individual differences in how we process information.