Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a preferred learning style of software engineers, involved in aircraft systems work and who are employed by the Navy and its contractors. The results of the study are to be used to assist in recruitment, selection of individuals in retraining programs, and in enhancing continuing professional development programs for software engineers. Two different survey instruments, the Learning-Style Inventory (LSI II) by David Kolb and the Learning Styles Questionnaire (LSQ) by Peter Honey and Alan Mumford were administered along with a demographic questionnaire to 150 government and contractor software engineers at the Pacific Missile Test Center and the Naval Weapons Center. The completed instruments were scored, and the results compiled to determine whether there was a preferred learning style exhibited by the software engineers. The data was treated to determine whether differences existed based on type of software work, performance appraisal, age, experience, academic background, as well as gender and ethnic background. The results of the survey clearly indicated that there was a demonstrated preferred learning style, and a least preferred learning style using either test instrument. Results from the LSI II indicated a strong preference for the Converger and Assimilator learning style. These two styles share a common learning mode of Abstract Conceptualization. Results from the LSQ indicate a strong preference for the Reflector learning style. It is recommended that either of these instruments be used to identify individual learning styles and that the results be used in conjunction with other screening instruments and media in recruiting, retraining and professional course development and presentation.