ISANA

David Craven

Abstract: The traditional view of the learning style of the Asian student learner as being suited to rote learning, concrete thinking and teacher dependence can restrict the innovative learning experiences that are provided to the Asian learner. For subjects such as business where there is no one right way but rather a variety of approaches that are often contextually determined, the traditional learning style can be ineffective in fostering knowledge. This paper challenges the validity of the notion that Asian students are unsuited to a flexible, innovative, creative and open systems learning environment. After three years of providing Asian students with a virtual business environment, the evidence suggests that after initial adjustments, the Asian learner benefits exponentially from a more fluid learning environment. International students evidence higher levels of creativity, conceptualisation and understanding than students taught in a teacher-directed environment. Their level of communication and confidence is enhanced. Instead of simply learning something superficially, students know through experience.

Key Words: Virtual learning environments, cultural styles of learning, experiential learning, business training.

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