Predicting Academic Success: Learning-Style Inventory Use in Graduate Allied Health

• In Event: Roundtable Session 33
  In Roundtable Session: Factors Affecting Success

Abstract

Most candidates accepted into highly competitive Physician Assistant (PA) Program at a nationally-recognized College of Medicine, perform well, but some lack certain critical learning skills needed for highly successful outcomes. Learning skills determine the mastery of target content. Many of these skills can be estimated by direct observation or self-reporting responses to specific queries and the patterns and preferences derived from those metrics comprise the construct of students’ dominant learning style. The purpose of this study was to determine if a well-validated, proprietary instrument assessed learning skills of students as predictive of academic outcomes. Findings may prove helpful in the selection process of candidates, and may provide insight into the learning skill needs of students identified at risk for non-success.

Authors

• Antone Robert Opekun, Baylor College of Medicine

• Denise M. McDonald, University of Houston - Clear Lake