Learning styles of first-year orthopedic surgical residents at 1 accredited institution

Abstract

Background: This study represents 1 arm of a 5-year prospective study investigating the learning styles of orthopedic residents and their surgical educators.

Methods: This project investigates the learning styles of the 2009-2010 year 1 orthopedic surgical residents. A cross-sectional survey using the Kolb Learning Style Inventory was completed by 13 first year orthopedic residents. Direct 1-to-1 interviews were completed with the primary investigator and each participant using the Kolb Learning Style Inventory and learning styles were determined.

Results: Converging learning style was the most common among the residents (53.8%). Residents demonstrated a high tendency toward the learning skill of abstract conceptualization combined with active experimentation, and a transition from action-oriented to more reflective learning style with age and postgraduate education.

Conclusions: These results may be useful in creating strategies specific to each learning style that will be offered to residents to enhance future teaching and learning.