Louis Fogg1, Linnea Carlson-Sabelli2, Karen Carlson3, Jean Giddens4. 1. Rush University College of Nursing, Chicago, Illinois, USA. 2. Rush University College of Nursing, USA. 3. University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, USA. 4. Virginia Commonwealth University School of Nursing, Richmond, Virginia, USA.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: It is important for nursing faculty to consider the variability in learning style among nursing students. AIM: The researchers sought to compare differences in perceived learning benefits among nursing students who had different learning styles and in frequency of use of a virtual community learning intervention. METHOD Using a comparative approach, learning style was measured with the Kolb Learning Style Inventory. Frequency of use and benefit were measured with an exit survey. RESULTS: No differences in perceived benefit were found according to learning style. Subjects with frequent use of the virtual community reported significantly greater learning benefits than those with infrequent use, regardless of learning style. Also found was a statistically significant relationship between Kolb learning-style scores and race or ethnicity. CONCLUSION: All nursing students may potentially benefit from virtual community use.
BACKGROUND: It is important for nursing faculty to consider the variability in learning style among nursing students. AIM: The researchers sought to compare differences in perceived learning benefits among nursing students who had different learning styles and in frequency of use of a virtual community learning intervention. METHOD Using a comparative approach, learning style was measured with the Kolb Learning Style Inventory. Frequency of use and benefit were measured with an exit survey. RESULTS: No differences in perceived benefit were found according to learning style. Subjects with frequent use of the virtual community reported significantly greater learning benefits than those with infrequent use, regardless of learning style. Also found was a statistically significant relationship between Kolb learning-style scores and race or ethnicity. CONCLUSION: All nursing students may potentially benefit from virtual community use.