Attempted Validation of the Scores of the VARK: Learning Styles Inventory With Multitrait–Multimethod Confirmatory Factor Analysis Models

TLDR

The VARK inventory assesses visual, aural, read/write, and kinesthetic preferences, with questions functioning as testlets whose within‑question item correlations represent method effects. The authors examined the dimensionality of the VARK learning styles inventory. Four multitrait‑multimethod confirmatory factor analysis models were compared to evaluate the VARK’s dimensionality. The correlated trait‑correlated method model best fit the data, providing adequate reliability and preliminary support for VARK score validity, while highlighting item wording and scoring algorithm concerns.

Abstract

The authors examined the dimensionality of the VARK learning styles inventory. The VARK measures four perceptual preferences: visual (V), aural (A), read/write (R), and kinesthetic (K). VARK questions can be viewed as testlets because respondents can select multiple items within a question. The correlations between items within testlets are a type of method effect. Four multitrait—multimethod confirmatory factor analysis models were compared to evaluate the dimensionality of the VARK. The correlated trait—correlated method model had the best fit to the VARK scores. The estimated reliability coefficients were adequate. The study found preliminary support for the validity of the VARK scores. Potential problems related to item wording and the scale’s scoring algorithm were identified, and cautions with respect to using the VARK with research were raised.