Exploring the development and impact of learning styles: An empirical investigation based on explicit and implicit measures

Abstract It is still controversial whether learning styles are unchangeable dispositions or flexible characteristics. Research on the development of learning styles is therefore in high demand. We suggest a conceptual model that describes both explicit and implicit cognitive processes involved in processing instructional material. We also propose an implicit association test (learning styles IAT). In a first study (N = 126), we evaluate the stimulus material for the IAT. In a second study (N = 104), we investigate the correlations between the implicit and explicit measures used. We further examine interactions between learning styles and learning outcomes as well as cognitive load. Two versions of a computer-based learning program (verbal vs. visual presentation of information) were used. The results reveal that matching learning styles and learning materials neither leads to better learning outcomes nor to a lower cognitive load. Additionally, neither implicit nor explicit measures were able to predict learning outcomes.