Using learning style theory in remote laboratory applications

Abstract

Studies have shown that, while learning different concepts, people sometimes use different approaches. These different approaches define individual learning styles. Understanding learning style differences is thus an important step in improving performance of the individuals and educational institutions. In this study, a learning style assessment tool was used to examine the relationship between students' learning styles and their performance in engineering education programs of Atilim University. 329 students (55 female) participated in this study. At their first year in the program, students' learning styles are measured by a learning style assessment tool developed by David Kolb. The results show that, at the Atilim University's engineering education program, most of the students are having assimilator type of learning style (45%). Convergers (27%) and divergers (22%) follow the assimilators. The number of accommodators is very limited (5%). This information can be used to create adaptive teaching environments in distance education courses.