As I understand the present research position, the notion of learning styles lacks much empirical support. I agree.
Having said this, I defy my own commitment to “the literature” in noting that I think I have learning style that must be different from the style of others. I am attending EdubloggerCon which is held before the “official” ISTE conference. I know that it is popular to be “anti-book” and “anti-lecture” because books and lectures are not participatory and are boring. In contrast, I find myself thinking unmoderated and ill-structured group discussions are not that useful. I can identify the issues discussed – if an author is mentioned I have usually read the book. I am not bored, I just do not find the time to uptake ratio to be that high. Perhaps I should not evaluate this day as a learning experience or perhaps I have a bias that defines learning in a way unsuited to what is happening here.
I think this session is about mutual support and making connections. It offers participants the opportunity to meet those who are more visible within this specific community and to provide those with “a position” to find others of like mind.
So, I really wonder if participants think they have learned something and just what that might be. Perhaps they noted an unfamiliar name or the identify of a school district doing something they find interesting. So, this is my invitation for a different perspective. Perhaps you have a different style.