Teaching Pre-medical Science to large groups: matching teaching and learning styles in higher education

Abstract

This study compares the various preferred learning styles of students in a large Premedical Science class with the various preferred teaching styles of the lecturers. It includes an analysis and evaluation of the teaching methods and aids actually used by lecturers. Critical analysis of the data revealed that students have a stronger preference for being taught by means of co-operative and active teaching/learning experiences than their lecturers have for using such means. The emphasis of the study thus falls on the importance of actively involving students in the teaching/learning process by way of co-operative teaching/learning methods. This would be likely to enhance the students’ ability to utilise cognitive skills such as creative thinking, interpretation, critical thinking and problem-solving.