I would like to know about your experiences and research regarding the use of learning styles in the classroom. Thank you
Numerous studies have debunked the concept of learning styles, showing that teaching according to individual learning preferences does not improve educational outcomes. A review by Pashler et al. (2008) found no credible evidence supporting the effectiveness of learning styles in improving learning outcomes. Similarly, a 2019 press release by the American Psychological Association stated that many studies have debunked the concept, emphasizing the lack of scientific evidence for learning styles. Additionally, An and Carr (2017) concluded that learning styles theory fails to explain learning and achievement, recommending alternative, evidence-based approaches.
refereces:
Pashler, H., McDaniel, M., Rohrer, D., & Bjork, R. (2008). Learning styles: Concepts and evidence. Psychological Science in the Public Interest, 9, 105-119.
American Psychological Association (2019). Belief in learning styles myth may be detrimental.
An, D., & Carr, M. (2017). Learning styles theory fails to explain learning and achievement: Recommendations for alternative approaches. Personality and Individual Differences, 116, 410-416.
Interesting question and reply.
Certainly in higher education, it is crucial to motivate students to be able to learn independently as well.
As a genuine suggestion, I will suggest that you spend the necessary time to read up on the field, as it is not as simple as suggested by the reply from Mr Garvida. That reply is only concerned with learning styles defined as visual, auditory, kinesthetic styles. And as far as that goes, the reply is correct.
However there are MANY learning (cognitive, intellectual, thinking) style theories, where styles are defined through the thinking processes going on, but in very different ways. Even though I have worked with this for more than 20 years, I cannot tell you how many Theories there are, as this would just be my opinion, but I have seen papers listing as many as 71 style theories. Some of these I would say are not style theories, but abilities and other constructs, but to state it here would just be opinion.
I don't research learning styles any more, but I still use it for teaching. I find it extremely usefull as a way to differentiate teaching to fit the THINKING of as many students as possible. And in educating university teachers and high school teachers, I have have found it extremely usefull to start with their learning styles to make hte point that they as teachers are differnt and then gain understanding of the differences between their own thinking when learning and that of their students. It has provided better understanding and pathways to work better with more students.
If you want to work with learning styles in your teaching, I can point you to some interesting (to me) sources. Should you wish so, please email me through ResearchGate
best Tine
Thanks you for your answers. I know that there are other learning styles. I use active, pragmatic, theoretical and reflexive of Honey and Alonso (1994)Thank you for your answers. I know there are other learning styles. Active, pragmatic, theoretical and reflective use of Honey and Alonso (1994) but it is possible to take them into account in class?
In higher education, addressing diverse learning styles is crucial for effective teaching and learning. Visual learners benefit from diagrams and visual aids, auditory learners thrive on lectures and discussions, while reading/writing learners excel with texts and written assignments. Kinesthetic learners engage best through hands-on activities and simulations. Incorporating constructivist principles, where students actively build their understanding through exploration and interaction, and experiential learning, which emphasizes learning through practical experiences and reflection, further enriches teaching strategies. By employing a variety of methods such as multimedia presentations, interactive lectures, reading assignments, hands-on activities, and collaborative projects, educators can create inclusive learning environments that cater to diverse learning styles and promote deeper engagement and comprehension among students in higher education.@
Basically, attending courses, labs, seminars and independent study (as much as possibile).
Understanding and catering to the different ways students learn in higher education can make teaching more effective and help students achieve better results.
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