Who gets 'A' grades in web-based learning environments? An evaluation of the role of learning styles

This paper reports on a study that aimed at comparing the effectiveness of a web-based learning environment to the traditional classroom for introductory management information systems (MIS) class. Effectiveness here is defined as students' performance in examinations. More specifically, our study compared the performance of students enrolled in an introductory MIS course delivered either in traditional classrooms or through a web-based learning environment, while taking into consideration the students' learning style as measured by Kolb's (1984) instrument. Results suggest that the best and worst performers in both environments have very different learning preferences and styles. Implications for research and practice are discussed.