The Relationship between Learning Styles and Problem-Solving
Strategies in Undergraduate Nursing Students of Isfahan University of
Medical Sciences, Iran
Background & Objective: Individuals, based on their learning styles, have different
interpretation of the environment and issues and choose different problem-solving strategies. The
objective of the present research was identifying the relationship between learning methods and
problem-solving strategies among students of the bachelor of nursing in Isfahan University of
Medical Sciences, Iran.
Methods: The present study was a correlational research. The statistical population included\ud
students of the bachelor of nursing in Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2013-2014 (n =
380). From among them, 191 individuals were selected through cluster random sampling and
based on sample size determined using Cochran`s sample size formula. The data collection tools
included Kolb’s Learning Styles Inventory (LSI) and the Problem-Solving Approaches
Questionnaire (Cassidy & Long). The face validity of the questionnaires was accepted due to
their high application rate. The reliability of the questionnaires was estimated as more than 0.70.
Data were analyzed using stepwise regression and the Pearson correlation coefficient.
Results: The results showed an inverse relationship between experiential learning style and
constructive problem-solving style. In addition, there was a direct relationship between
experiential learning style and non-constructive problem-solving style. There was a reverse
relationship between abstract conceptualization and non-constructive problem-solving style. The
best predictor of constructive and non-constructive problem-solving styles was experiential
learning style.
Conclusion: Based on the relationship observed between learning styles and problem-solving
styles, it is suggested that learning styles and practices be introduced to students and teachers in
training courses so that they use suitable problem-solving styles based on the identified learning
styles. Moreover, the provision of nursing courses that provide the possibility of experiential
learning for students is highly recommended.
Key Words: Problem-solving strategies, Learning style, Nursing student
