Kolb Learning Styles

Learners have two preferred ways for dealing with information: 

• Abstractness or Conceteness
• Reflection or Activity

Combining them leads to four learning modes:

• Abstract Conceptualization (AC) - learning by thinking 
• Active Experimentation (AE) - learning by doing
• Concrete Experience (CE) - learning by feeling
• Reflective Observation (RO) - learning by reflection, watching, and listening

The four learning modes can be combined to create four learning styles, each of which represents a combination of two of the four learning modes.

Diverger - CE and RO

This learner likes imaginative, innovative activities, generating a wide range of ideas, discussion, being sensitive to feelings, identifying problems and gathering information, being personally involved in the learning experience, and group activities. The learner may enjoy independent study, web searches, receiving many examples, and self-diagnostic activities.

Assimilator - AC and RO

This learner likes abstract ideas and concepts, creating conceptual models, designing experiments, problem solving, considering alternative solutions, reading, reflection, theories, analyzing quantitative information, and structured activities. The learner may enjoy a systematic approach, detailed directions, and computer-assisted instruction.

Converger - AC and AE

This learner likes finding practical uses for ideas and theories, evaluating consequences and selecting solutions, following detailed sequential steps, hands-on activities, trial and error, and being given clear objectives with a logical sequence to activities. This leaner does not do as well in interpersonal situations. He or she may enjoy simulations, selecting information sources, guest speakers, and application to the "real world."

Accomodator - CE and AE

This learner likes hands-on experience, active learning, carrying out solutions, risk taking, trial and error, flexibility, sharing information with others, class discussion, debates, presentations, group activities. The learner dislikes structure and authority figures. He or she works well with others and or serving as a leader. This learner may enjoy role play, narration, and online peer interaction.

In a study conducted at Southwestern Texas State University, students with the Reflective Observation and Active Experimentation learning modes found that computer-mediated communication assisted them in learning. These students liked learning situations that emphasized new approaches, observation, and the ability to control their own learning to some extent. (See Ellsworth, J. [1995]. Using computer-mediated communication in teaching university courses. In Z.L. Berge & M.P. Collins [Eds.], Computer-mediated communication and the online classroom, Vol. 1. Cresskill, NJ: Hampton Press, Inc.)

Another study found that distance education students at high risk for dropping out had a higher than average Concrete Experience score, and a lower than average Abstract Conceptualization score. (See Dille, B., & Mezack, M. [1991]. Identifying predictors of high risk among community college telecourse students. American Journal of Distance Education 5 [1], 24-35.)

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