Learning style theory and course design

CHED 761

Renee Cole, Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry and Physics, University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO 64093 and Marcy Towns, Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, 560 Oval Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2084.
The trend in both education and the work environment involves significantly more computer mediated communication. The question arises: How do we prepare students to work and learn in this environment? There is much research that suggests that designing appropriate learning environments is not trivial. Learning style and communication theory can inform educators and provide guidance to optimize how we use computer mediated learning environments most effectively. This presentation will present an overview of relevant communication and learning style theory and the requirements for effective interactions. It will also discuss how learning styles inform the use of visualization and group learning activities in course design.