Reflections of Two Pragmatists: A Critique of Honey and Mumford′s Learning Styles

Abstract

Contains a critique of Honey and Mumford′s learning style theory, while recognizing its pioneering achievements. Questions what Honey and Mumford mean by learning and experience and explores the validity of viewing experience as the primary “motor” of learning. Raises doubts about the sequence of the learning cycle as depicted by Honey and Mumford. Asks: Does the learning styles questionnaire meaningfully measure learning preferences or is it more accurately a personality questionnaire? What do certain questionnaire scores mean, e.g. low scores across the spectrum? Do not certain subjects and situations prescribe the learning approach regardless of one′s preference?

Citation

Caple, J. and Martin, P. (1994), "Reflections of Two Pragmatists: A Critique of Honey and Mumford′s Learning Styles", Industrial and Commercial Training, Vol. 26 No. 1, pp. 16-20. https://doi.org/10.1108/00197859410051235