Date of Award

4-15-2016

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Department

Organizational Leadership

First Advisor

Douglas DeVore, Ed.D

Second Advisor

Linda DeLong, Ed.D

Third Advisor

Lisbeth Johnson, Ed.D

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of this mixed-method study was to determine the degree of perceived differences for auditory, visual and kinesthetic learning styles of Traditionalist, Baby Boomers, Generation X and Millennial generational healthcare workers participating in technology-assisted healthcare training.

Methodology. This mixed-method research design used quantitative and qualitative data to analyze the research questions regarding generational learning style preferences. The study focused on quantitative data collection, through an online survey instrument that included two open-ended qualitative questions. The quantitative component (survey) was administered via a 24-question online survey. The results obtained from the qualitative component (interview questions) identified analyzable patterns and themes used to make general claims about generational preferences for visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning. The population for this study included healthcare staff, who participated in computer-based healthcare training.

Findings. Statistical reporting provided quantitative and qualitative results showing the generations represented in this study utilize some degree of all three learning styles: visual, auditory, and kinesthetic. Interpretation of the data presented a significant difference for a visual learning style preference for Baby Boomers and Generation X. Among all generations, Generation X exhibited the most variation between learning style questions and intergeneration responses.

Recommendations. This study considered the learning style preferences of the current generational learners in the workplace who receive computer-based healthcare training. There are additional research opportunities to explore learning style preferences of Generation Z, clinical healthcare providers, healthcare trainers, secondary, or complimentary learning styles that influence learning outcomes for adult learners, or technology as the single driver for workplace success.

Conclusions. First, all generations represented in this study have varying degrees of visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning style preferences. Second, generational studies have helped to uncover differences between the generational cohorts and the importance of understanding their values. Third, the concluding thought of this research is that vision is the primary learning source and is enhanced and/or complimented by a secondary learning style.

Comments

Dr. Michaelle Knight is a true professional in every sense of the word. She is well trained, not only academically, but in business decorum and personal presentation as well. Innovative and captivating describe Dr. Knight's speaking style. She is passionate about learning and believes teaching is her opportunity to motivate, encourage, and inspire others to learn. Her pursuit of higher education paved the way for opportunities in business, as well as linked her to her destiny of inspiring others to succeed. As a naturally gifted speaker, talented writer, and motivator, Dr. Knight desires to reach others through her gifts to offer them hope and inspiration as they embrace life and overcome challenges on their road to success.

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