Learning Styles and Foreign Language Learning Difficulties

Abstract

Abstract: In order to identify what other elements besides linguistic deficits could be playing a role in foreign language learning difficulties, the Kolb Learning Styles Inventory was administered to students enrolled in regular and modified Spanish classes at a major U.S. university. Preliminary results gathered as part of a longitudinal study on learning styles and foreign language learning difficulties indicate that regardless of any specific language learning deficit or difficulty, a student's preferred learning style can hinder or help success in the foreign language classroom. Findings from this study also indicate that having access to information about the preferred learning styles of the majority of students enrolled in beginning foreign language classes at the college level will be of great importance for researchers, instructors, and students alike.