The influences of cognitive styles on individual learning and collaborative learning

Abstract

Both individual learning (IL) and collaborative learning (CL) provide students with different benefits. However, previous research indicates that cognitive styles affect students’ learning preferences. Thus, it is necessary to examine how cognitive styles influence students’ reactions to IL and CL. Among various cognitive styles, Pask’s Holist/Serialist biases have recently received considerable attention. Accordingly, the current study aims to illuminate how Holists and Seriailsts react to IL and CL. Subsequent results indicate heterogeneous groups with both Holists and Serialists obtain the best learning performance when undertaking CL. Furthermore, the findings suggest that there is a need to provide Serialists with additional support, regardless of either IL or CL.

Keywords:

• cognitive styles
• collaborative learning
• individual learning