Teaching Computer Software Skills: Matching Teaching and Learning Styles

This study investigates whether matching teaching approach with student preferred learning style is important at the undergraduate level. The results suggest that there is a significant association between three areas (1) traditional in-class and self-paced teaching approaches, (2) individualsÕ preferred learning styles defined as instructor-dependent and independent study, and (3) computer skills proficiency. It appears that students who worked independently developed tools necessary to achieve the same level of skill mastery as students who relied on in-class instruction and instructor assistance, and there was no significant difference between the two groups in the amount of time spent in completing assignments. The results support the idea that students are likely to learn best, in terms of effectiveness and efficiency, when the teaching method most compatible with each studentÕs choice of learning style is used.