Learning Styles of Grade Five Pupils: Basis for Enhancing Teaching Strategies

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The study of learning styles is one of interest in educational circles. Knowledge of student learning preferences can provide a bridge to course success in an education mode. If optimal student learning is dependent on learning styles, then teachers should be aware of these differences and alter their preparation and instructional methods accordingly. The primary purpose of this research was to determine the learning styles of most of Grade five pupils of Potol-Sta. Isabel Elementary School as the basis for the teaching styles that teachers should use to enhance the academic performance of pupils.

METHODS

The descriptive survey method was used in this study. The descriptive method means that a survey was made to discover the learning styles of Grade five pupils and some teacher's teaching strategies. The researcher used the "VAK Learning Styles Self-Assessment Questionnaire" which was validated by the principal of the school Mrs. Noema V. Quintino. The researcher personally distributed the questionnaires and conducted the survey. The questionnaires had 30 questions with 3 options to choose from. First option pertaining to VISUAL learning style, the second option to AUDITORY learning style, while the third option to KINAESTHETIC learning style. Questionnaires were collected and data obtained were tabulated in tables and interpreted using the simple percentage.

RESULTS

Based on the survey conducted by the researcher, there were 70 or 63% of the 111 respondents who had Visual learning style. They had a preference for seen or observed things, including pictures, diagrams, demonstrations, displays, handouts, films, flip-chart, etc. To cater to the needs of these visual learners, teachers were encouraged to use visuals aids and PowerPoint presentation in teaching.

DISCUSSIONS

The results revealed that Grade Five pupils of Potol-Sta. Isabel Elementary School had different learning styles and that majority of them were VISUAL learners. Considering these learning styles in choosing teaching styles of teachers may enhance the academic performance of learners.