This research investigated the interactional effect of learning style and two methods of instruction on knowledge and attitude scores of students who engaged in a lesson on Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) and traditional lecture/discussion classroom format (L/D) were the two methods of instruction used. The variables of learning style, type of instruction, type of college nursing program, sex, age, average grade, computer experience, and achievement were also addressed. Kolb's Learning Style Inventory was administered to 187 students of nursing in four college programs in the St. Louis metropolitan area. These subjects then participated in an AIDS lesson by either CAI or L/D. Student achievement scores on both an immediate and a delayed posttest were compared and analyzed. Student attitudes toward computing in nursing were measured before and after the AIDS lesson by parallel forms of Thomas' opinionnaire.

Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi square, student t-test, Pearson's correlation, and ANOVA. The results failed to demonstrate any relationship between learning style and type of instruction. The majority of nursing students in this study were identified as assimilators (38.6%), followed by divergers (28.3%). The remainder of students were equally divided between accommodators and convergers (16%).

Findings of this study revealed a significant difference between scores achieved on a written immediate posttest of knowledge by students who participated in a CAI lesson on AIDS and those who participated in L/D class; however, this significant difference was not maintained on the delayed posttest. CAI students also used significantly less time to complete the AIDS lesson. Students who participated in the CAI lesson had a greater increase in their mean posttest scores than those in the L/D class, but it was not significant. Regardless of instruction method or gender there was a significant improvement in student attitude toward caring for persons who are HIV positive after student participation in the AIDS lesson.