Scenario: Perhaps one of the most enduring beliefs about education relates to the concept of learning styles. Most people can probably identify whether they are more Visual, Auditory, or Kinesthetic learners, and it is popular to build teaching strategies around these different styles. However, recent research suggests the link between learning and teaching approaches designed around learning styles may be a myth. Howard Gardner, the Hobbs Professor of Cognition and Education at Harvard University, who coined the phrase multiple intelligences, even argues that his multiple intelligences theories have been misinterpreted and simplified into learning styles.
What are instructors to do? On the one hand, learning styles is a concept that seems meaningful to teachers and students; often students will expect that classes be tailored to their individualized learning styles. On the other hand, the research suggests that doing so may not meaningfully contribute to learning.
Purpose: First, research and analyze the conversation around multiple intelligences and learning styles. Does it seem like a myth, or is there value in tailoring learning activities after these styles? Next, based on your research and your personal learning experiences, write a research-based proposal essay that suggests ways your CMU English instructor could design class activities and writing assignments to account for your findings.
Essay genre: Research-based Proposal Essay
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