An Investigation Of Principals' Attitudes Toward The Knowledge And Use Of Learning Styles In Therapeutic Settings

In March, 2006 the Principal's Attitudes Toward the Knowledge, Value, and Application of Learning Styles with Students in Therapeutic Settings survey developed by the author was distributed to 120 principals belonging to the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs. Two mailings yielded a return of 68 (56.6%) usable survey instruments from which principals' self-reporting on knowledge, value and application of learning styles was examined. Focus for this study was provided through three research questions: (a) to determine to what extent principals in therapeutic settings self-reported general knowledge of learning style applications, (b) to determine to what extent principals exhibit positive attitudes toward the use of learning style theory- supported instructional methods and materials, and (c) to determine to what extent principals in therapeutic settings support the application of learning style theory. All administrators reported general knowledge of learning style theories, three basic learning styles, and matching teaching strategies with learning styles. All administrators believed that students do exhibit different learning styles, learning styles have a place in education, and teachers should receive learning style training. They also expressed the belief that learning styles impact student learning, matching teaching strategies to learning styles was important for academic success, a learning style inventory was necessary, and matching mental health disorders to learning styles was important for academic achievement. The most documented change due to learning style-based instruction was evidenced by test scores and earned grades. All administrators wanted to learn more about learning styles. Almost 90% of administrators indicated that they were providing learning style training. Almost 100% (95.6%) reported they observed improvement on academic achievement due to learning style-based instruction.

Author dc:creator

• Pancoast, Renee

Contributors dc:contributor

• Taylor, Rosemarye

• learning styles
• professional development
• principals. attitudes
• Education
• Educational Leadership

Language dc:language

English

Identifier

CFE0001249

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:stars.library.ucf.edu:etd-1777