Foreign Language Learners' Experiences Regarding their Learning Style in Higher Education

Abstract

Learning styles is a cognitive factor that influences learning. Taking care of them in the teaching practice can help teachers provide positive learning experiences so that learners succeed in the acquisition of foreign languages or any other field of study. The purpose of this research was to identify the relationship between learning styles, academic achievement, and students’ learning experiences in higher education. A mixed-methods research design was employed. The quantitative results showed that students have a combination of learning styles, a predominance of the reflective style and that there was no significant relationship between learning styles and academic achievement. Qualitative results showed that negative learning experiences arose when learning styles and emotional factors were put aside. Based on the findings, the researcher concludes that students need to develop the four learning styles types so that students can have the specific qualities a foreign language learner need.