FACTORS AFFECTING THE LEARNING STYLES OF ELEMENTARY GRADE 6 STUDENTS

Students have unique ways of absorbing and processing information. Some excel with visual aids, while others grasp concepts best through discussions. These individual preferences are known as learning styles. Understanding these styles is critical for educators to optimize learning. This study determined the factors affecting the learning styles of the Grade 6 students in the District of Gandara II, Schools Division of Samar, during the school year 2022-2023, with the end- goal of developing an intervention program to improve engagement in learning. The researchers employed a quantitative approach, utilizing surveys and questionnaires to gather data from the target student population. This data was analyzed to reveal the various influences that shape the learning styles of Grade 6 students in the district. The survey results showed that student respondents have a positive attitude towards learning, valuing explanations and discussions in class. They preferred a mix of learning styles, favoring visual and auditory methods with some hands-on activities. Interestingly, physical health, including regular meals and exercise, was seen as critical for learning. Most importantly, teachers and their teaching methods had the strongest influence on learning styles. Students valued teachers who catered to individual needs and created positive classroom environments. The study also found a significant correlation between student sex, preferred learning materials, overall attitude towards learning, and their learning styles. This suggests a multifaceted approach is needed to improve engagement. An effective intervention program should consider diverse learning styles, promote a positive learning environment, emphasize well-being, and potentially tailor instruction based on student sex and preferred learning materials. Further research is recommended to explore the reasons behind these correlations and how other student characteristics or environmental factors might influence learning styles.