[Psychological types and learning styles of students entering medical school at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile].

BACKGROUND

Psychological type and learning style influence the way students perceive and process information. However, research in medical education in Chile still does not put enough emphasis in the study of these variables.

AIM

To characterize the psychological types and learning styles of the students admitted to a Medical School.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and the Kolb's Learning Styles Inventory (IEA) were administered to the 270 students admitted from 2000 to 2002 to the medical school of the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile.

RESULTS

Fifty five percent of our students are concentrated in 4 of the 16 psychological types described. These students are characterized by the ability to base their decisions upon logical and objective reasoning (Thinking [T]) and to face life in a structured and decided way (Judging [J]). Only 10% of the students have preferences opposite to T and J. These students base their decisions on the preservation of harmony and teamwork (Feeling [F]) and have a flexible attitude towards life (Perceiving [P]). The remaining 35% have types with pairs of preferences TP and FJ. With regard to learning styles, more than two thirds of our students are Assimilators or Convergers. These learners tend to assimilate large amounts of information and abstract the main concepts, rather than to pay attention to concrete details. In general, our students are more reflective than active; they evaluate thoroughly all alternatives before making a decision.

CONCLUSIONS

The psychological types and learning styles of medical students cluster around specific patterns whose features may either favor or hamper a specific learning. Knowledge of the differences in psychological types and learning styles of students may provide teachers with a new and valuable tool for improving learning and contributing to the academic success of students.