THE IMPACT OF LEARNING STYLES ON STUDENT PERFORMANCE IN AN EFL CLASSROOM

Abstract

Each of us has an individual learning style, which means that we learn and process information in different ways. This paper considers two models of learning styles: an integrated construct based on the literature review and our own field study, and the markedly different ‘Kolb Learning Style Inventory’. The former has been developed from various existing models and is specifically related to undergraduate and graduate EFL learning. The latter is discussed with an increased focus on adult EFL learning. The two age groups are compared and contrasted in terms of their learning strengths and weaknesses, as well as their learning preferences. The paper also touches upon the issue of balancing different types of learners in a single classroom.