David Kolb's Learning Styles

David Kolb, an American educational theorist, defined a model of learning that, based on two preference dimensions, divides learners into four categories. He theorized that people develop a preference for how they perceive, as well as process information.

As far as perception is concerned, learners have a preference for either:

• concrete experience: perceiving things the way they are;

or

• abstract conceptualization: perceiving things as concepts and ideas.

When it comes to processing information, Kolb distinguishes between another set of preferences:

• active experimentation: actively trying out the conclusions made from what has been perceived;

or

• reflective observation: taking one's conclusions made from what has been perceived and watching to see if they work.

Depending on the combination of perception and processing preferences, the result is one of four learning styles:

Accomodators (concrete experience/abstract experimentation) - "feel and do":

The accomodators greatest strength is doing things actively. They like to explore complexity by direct interaction and hands-on activities. People with this learning style rely on intuition rather than logic. They are attracted to new challenges and experiences, and to carrying out plans. They tend to rely on others for information than carry out their own analysis. People with an Accommodating learning style prefer to work in teams to complete tasks.

Divergers (concrete experience/reflective observation) - "feel and watch":

The diverger has a strong imaginative ability and is particularly good at producing ideas and seeing things from different perspectives. These people are sensitive and prefer to watch rather than do. People with a Diverging learning style have broad cultural interests and are interested in people. They tend to be imaginative and emotional, and prefer to work in groups, listen with an open mind and to receive personal feedback.

Convergers (abstract conceptualization/active experimentation) - "think and do":

The converger's strength lies in hypo deductive reasoning and the practical application of ideas. People with a Converging learning style prefer technical tasks, and are less concerned with people and interpersonal aspects. They like to experiment with new ideas, to simulate, and to work with practical applications.

Assimilators (abstract conceptualization/reflective observation) - "think and watch":

The assimilator has a strong ability to create theoretical models and use inductive reasoning. People with this learning style prefer a concise, logical approach and ideas and concepts are important to them. These people require good clear explanation rather than practical opportunity. They are more attracted to logically sound theories than approaches based on practical value. They prefer readings, lectures and exploring analytical models.

Like any theoretical model, Kolb's descriptions should be seen as guidlines rather than set rules. Studies have shown, however, that most people show a strong preference for one of these learning styles. When teaching a group of students, chances are that teachers will find a combination of different learning styles in their classroom. Since it tends to be more difficult for most people to learn through activities that are geared towards a learning styles other than their preferred one, teachers should use a variety of styles in order to maximize each student's learning outcomes.