Language Learning in the Light of Theory of Learning Styles and Cognitive Styles Theory

Abstract

When teachers pay attention to individual differences, learning styles and cognitive styles of the students, all sides benefit. There is also another aspect to the way language learning is influenced by type differences. The discussion of the learning style is an important part of this aspect. Also student learning is affected by thedegree to which the student is interested in and attracted to a subject. Type preferences are related to interest in different content areas as well as to the way the content is taught. When considering the importance of match or mismatch, it is useful to remember that certain subjects will turn on some types and turn off others. Because students’ success is also deeply influenced by application (persistence in fixing attention and assiduity in performing what is required), Myers considered application to be an important factor to keep in mind when considering the importance of individual preferences. The author of the present paper supports the point of view of Dunn (1981:60), that most students are capable of analyzing their own learning style, what gives them chance of choice. Choice is important in language learning. It is the springboard to wise decision-making. The more we know our students, their learning styles, their goals and needs, the more they will be successful in their language learning, and we’ll be successful in our teaching.