RUNNING HEAD: LEARNING STYLES AND STUDY HABITS: TEACHING STUDENTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF THEIR OWN LEARNING

Learning Styles and Study Habits: Teaching Students to Take Control of their Own Learning Stacey M. Meyer

LEARNING STYLES AND STUDY HABITS Abstract In this study I examined the potential for using learning styles inventory data to help Advanced Placement Environmental Science students work to their strengths and study more effectively. Researchers in previous studies found that when students were taught how to accommodate their own learning style preferences, their confidence, attitude, and academic achievement improve (Boström & Lassen, 2006; Dunn et al., 2009; Lovelace, 2005). In this study, I recorded students study habits using a pretest and student interviews and then implemented an intervention in which I taught students new study techniques based on their perceptual preferences. After the intervention, I used a posttest and more student interviews to determine if students changed their study habits and record how they felt about these changes. My students reacted positively to this intervention, reporting that it was helpful and that they would continue to use their new strategies.

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Keywords: Study skills, learning styles, learning style preferences

LEARNING STYLES AND STUDY HABITS In this study I examined the potential for using learning styles inventory data to teach students how to make accommodations that cater to their preferences while studying and completing homework. When students are provided with information and tools to help them work to their strengths their confidence, attitude, and academic achievement may improve (Boström & Lassen, 2006; A. W. Carns & M. R. Carns, 1991; Charkins, O'Toole, & Wetzel, 1985; Dunn, Griggs, Olson, Beasley, & Gorman, 1995; Dunn et al., 2009; Lovelace, 2005). This approach is appealing not only