Incorporating Learning Styles Theory in ISW lessons

ISW Facilitator’s ConferenceJune 13, 2009By: Marjorie Contenti, SAIT Polytechnic

Agenda

Bridge-In to learning styles: value of knowing about learning stylesObjectives of this workshopPre-assessment of audience knowledge of learning stylesSmall group activity ReflectionPost-assessment and summary

Value of knowing more about learning styles

An opportunity to reflect on, and explore, our own preferencesAn opportunity to develop a respect for the learning preferences of othersAn opportunity to s-t-r-e-t-c-h our own styles and add more tools to our learning and our teaching tool boxA common vocabulary (which helps us understand concepts)

Objectives of this workshop

As a result of this session, participants will be able to

Identify the value of introducing a learning styles inventory to ISW participantsIdentify one or more methods of introducing learning styles in the ISWAssess the VARK learning preference inventory

Learning styles are the way we process information

Learning is the process by which we retain knowledge and skills A Learning Style is the way we process information and experiences and then turn them into learning…or, think of it as the “default” position

Learning styles are varied

Just different approaches to the way we learn. Note: these are preferences, not strengthsMany tools to measure learning styles:

Kolb, Gregorc, VARK, Multiple Intelligences, DISC, Kiersey, Meyers-Briggs, and over 100 inventories of learning styles

Which have you used in your ISW?

Identify methods of introducing learning styles in the ISW

List the learning styles inventories that are being taught in ISWsIn small groups based on interest, discuss methods that have been used to introduce learning styles in ISWsReport methods to the large group

If desired, exchange contact information for follow-up

A Learning style inventory: KolbAccommodatorsInvestigating the real worldDiscovery learningTasks with little structurePersonal involvementRisk takingAction oriented group activitiesTrying different solutions

DivergersSelf-expression and creativityCooperative learningSharingGroup workGathering information in novel waysOpen-minded listeningImagining implications

ConvergersStructured assignments with clear directionsHands-onSpecific and clear cut dataBuilding physical productsChoosing the best solutionsOrderlyDesigning experiments

AssimilatorsIdeas, conceptsOrderly and logicalLecturesPapersReadingsBuilding conceptual modelsAnalyzing data

Learning style:VARK modalities http://www.vark-learn.com/english/page.asp?p=categories

Visual

Aural

Read/Write

Kinesthetic

One way of introducing learning style inventory in the ISW

ISW facilitators have the participants do the following:

Form small groupsEach group chooses or is assigned one of the learning styles in the VARKEach group designs an activity that learners with that style would like and an activity they would not likeDescribe the activities to the large group

Reflection on using learning styles in the ISW

Individually, or in pairs or groups from your institution, think about how you might incorporate a learning style inventory in your ISWNext steps?

Post Assessment and SummaryDid you accomplish these objectives?

Identify the value of introducing a learning styles inventory to ISW participantsIdentify one or more methods of introducing learning styles in the ISWAssess the VARK learning preference inventory