Problems and Inconsistencies with Kolb's Learning Styles

Abstract

Kolb's Learning Style Inventory (LSI) (1984) is frequently used within many areas of study and research as a method of assigning students to a given learning style. However, this paper argues that there are substantial problems with the theoretical foundations of his work. Anomalies are noted with the claimed relationship with Jung's styles (1977) and with Kolb's use of 'possibility processing' (Tyler, 1978). It is argued that these anomalies make it impossible for firm conclusions about the nature of Kolb's learning style to be made. Implications for the use of Kolb's learning styles are presented.