Factor Analysis of the Model Constructs Suggested by Kolb's Learning Skills Profile

Abstract

Data from 236 MBA and middle-level managers who completed Kolb's Learning Skills Profile were analyzed using confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses to assess whether Kolb's model of Experiential Learning Theory could be validated at the performance level. An analysis of the Learning Skills Profile correlation matrix showed that Kolb's proposed four factors could be found although not without significant intercorrelation. The two-factor model suggested by the theory, i.e., Grasping of experience and Transformation of experience, did not appear in a confirmatory analysis. Although some support could be found for the factor loadings suggested by Kolb, an alternative loading scheme was found through exploratory factor analysis, wherein results suggested that other explanations might be found for the underlying latent variables proposed by Kolb.