Mind Styles™ and Paradiddles — Beyond the Bell-Curve: Towards an Understanding of Learning Preferences,and Implications for Instrumental Teachers

Abstract

This qualitative case study was undertaken in order to explore learning styles in the context of instrumental drum tuition. The study considers two young drummers, taught by one of the authors prior to and during the study. Extensive observations were made; both drummers and their mother were interviewed; the boys' lessons were recorded and notes taken from these recordings. The study concludes that students exhibit different learning preferences, and that learning to play the drums, for example, is affected by numerous interconnected factors. The study draws implications for teachers to be sensitive to students' individual learning preferences if they are to enable them to learn effectively.