Implications of Learning Behavior. An Investigation of Continuous Learning Processes

According to literature in the field of education individuals learn differently and are aware of what is best for their own learning style. Hence, they use different techniques for studying and demand diverse modes of communication. Furthermore, research suggests that practicing enhances students' achievement. This is especially true, if there are multiple training sessions. Additionally, research indicates that students rather use worked-out examples for studying, if they have the choice between theoretic written instructions and examples or hands-on training, because the majority of (first-year) students have difficulties learning abstract principals. Consequently, the goal of this study is to identify if a pattern regarding the usage of learning modes is present and which learning behavior leads to success. The method applied is graphical modelling because it allows categorical and continuous responses within one model. Results show that although learning style pattern exist, success is mainly determined by the amount of exercises executed, the usage of additional online-notes, the glossary, foreign notes, the textbook, and the frequency of studying.