2.2.1 Learning style and Cognitive style
In the field of research relating to language teaching and learning, the two terms “learning style” and “cognitive style” are often used interchangeably. Several researchers have tried to define the differences between the two types such as :
Allport (1937) clarifies the differences by stating cognitive style is individual’s typical ways of processing such as problem solving, thinking, perceiving and remembering. In contast, learning styles is described as the application of cognitive style in learning.
R. Riding and Cheema (1991) view cognitive style as bipolar dimension. On the other hand, learning style consists of a number of components that are not mutually …show more content…
Learning strategies are described as “specific actions, behaviors, steps, or techniques such as seeking out conversation partners, or giving oneself encouragement to tackle a difficult language task - used by students to enhance their own learning” (Scarcella & Oxford, 1992). Hartley (1998) goes on to clarify as he says “different strategies can be selected by learners to deal with different tasks. Learning styles might be more automatic than learning strategies which are optional.” In other words, learning styles are “biologically and developmentally imposed” (Dunn & Griggs, 1988), which means they are inherent in learners, while learning strategies are sets of skills or techniques that learners can consciously choose to facilitate learning …show more content…
Those underperforming students later had their learning styles assessed using the Learning Style Inventory and from that results had their classroom instructions tailored according to their learning styles. The data of the test scores before and after the method change later revealed there was an increase in the scores in reading, language, and math (Burke & Dunn, 2002)
In the context of ESL, the majority of teachers claim they can understand their learners’ learning styles, but a study dismissed this idea. Pettigrew and Buell (1989) conducted a study to determine whether teachers can accurately predict the learning styles of their learners. A group of students had their learning styles identified using Canfield Learning Styles Inventory. The results were then compared to the learning styles profiles that the teachers made to their learners. The finds showed that teachers can hardly accurately predict their learners’ learning styles, hence they could not tailor instructions to the learners in an effective way. The authors then suggest it is advisable to include information of learners’ learning styles into the curriculum of preparation