Attitudes, learning styles and the workplace

Abstract

The present study was carried out as part of a broader investigation into the attitudes of students, lecturers and employers to a range of different teaching methods. The two main aims of the study were to identify ways of increasing the learning potential of students and which teaching methods employers perceive as most beneficial to students. An attitude questionnaire and a learning style inventory were administered to students, lecturers and employers from three different academic disciplines. It was found that learning style is related to occupation. Participants, as a whole, prefer group projects the most and lectures the least. Good reading and listening skills were evaluated as much more important than other life skills. In order to maximise the learning potential of students, the benefits of group projects are discussed. The advantages and disadvantages of lectures, and CAL are also discussed in the light of these results. © 2000 Journal of Vocational Education and Trainin. All rights reserved.