Learning style preferences: a comparison of younger and older adult females

This study explored the learning styles of older adult females (65 + years) as compared to younger adult females (35-55 years) in the areas of immediate environment, emotionality, sociological needs and physical needs. At recreation community centers, 80 subjects were selected on a non-random basis, with one-half falling in each age category. Each subject was individually questioned using the Productivity Environmental Preference Survey, which analyzes a personal preference for each of 20 elements and identifies how adults prefer to function, learn, concentrate and perform in their educational or occupational activities. An analysis by t test showed a significant difference between the two groups in the elements of light, learning alone--peer oriented, authority figures present, and evening--morning. When the elements were combined and treated by discriminant analysis, most of these findings were confirmed, showing a significant difference in five elements: light, motivation, responsibility, learning alone--peer oriented, evening--morning. These findings might be useful to nutrition educators when developing nutrition programs for the elderly.