And, what to do if you love 'em...
Although learning styles theory is a widely used and accepted practice
in education, one need not look far to find a multitude of research
disputing its validity and reliability. While proponents pledge
allegiance to it, opponents claim improper evidence, inadequate design,
and an insufficient hypothesis. I am a proponent of learning
styles as a prompt for inspiration, a tool for engagement, and a basis
for education. I believe in ‘engaging, inspiring, and educating
interactively’ (online or anywhere). And, I have experienced its
effectiveness as both teacher and learner.
Learning (and
teaching) styles indicate a preference of one style over others. While
we cannot possibly accommodate every individual’s preference in every
action or component, we can take steps to ensure variety and avoid
exclusion. The best way I can fathom accomplishing this feat is by
‘flipping the classroom’.
First, put the lectures online. Doc
form, video form, podcast form, include a links page, and post them on a
platform that allows social sharing and interacting. This way each
student can choose how he/she prefers to learn.
Day One--Have
each student complete a learning style inventory. Cover how each
learning style can benefit from which form of lecture presentation. Keep
in mind, this is the
same lecture presented in many various forms.
Then design in-class work based on the lectures to accommodate each
style. Remember, we aren’t coming up with 20-30 different activities,
just 4-6. Let each student decide which one he or she prefers to
participate in.
Present assessments online, in similar formats,
where questions are written; in video or podcast form; and presented
through links. Classroom management could prove a less daunting task,
since students have some input as to how they learn, and teachers become
facilitators of interaction, rather than deliverers of material.
Completing and assessing the learning style inventory gives students
an insight into self--who doesn't enjoy that?...Engage. Allowing
students a choice tailored to his/her self-assessed learning style--who
wouldn't prefer a say-so here?...Inspire. Flipping the classroom to
encourage interaction--worth a shot, right?...Educate. I say, why not?
What say ye?
Learning Styles: Love 'em or Leave 'em?
And, if you love 'em, and implement them, how do you go about it?
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