I remember when the topic of learning styles was all the rage. Now I am hearing that the theory of learning styles has been pretty much debunked. Where do you stand? Are learning styles more fact or fiction? One reason why this may be difficult to answer is that the question is misleading. The answer lies in the middle.
Reflecting on my own learning experiences I see that learning preferences vary. I do not have an absolute learning style. When taking an online course my preference leans towards reading and illustrations. However, while taking the course I may want to see a video or practice with an interaction. My learning preferences can change in a moment, quickly and frequently. And that is of fundamental importance to learning professionals.
Despite all the buzz about AI personalizing learning, there is no way for an AI system to know when a user’s learning preference changes. That is where the Learner Intelligence (LI) adaptive design model has the advantage. When a designer anticipates learner needs and makes those options available, the learner can choose the way he or she wants to learn at any point in the learning experience.
The lesson for modern instructional designers is clear. Both AI and LI design approaches have much to offer. Combining both the predictive elements of AI with the learner centric advantages of LI can lead to highly personalized and effective learning experiences.