Influence of personality trait and learning style on academic performance of diploma in basic education distance learners of University of Cape Coast. Ghana

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of personality trait and learning style on academic perfornlance of Diplonla in Basic Education (DBE) distance learners of University of Cape Coast (UCC) .. taking into consideration~ the mediating effects of acadelnic self-discipline and acadelnic self-confidence. The quantitative research approach and descriptive survey design "vere adopted for the study. The sanlple size was 763 level 200 DBE students. The study centres \vere selected using purposive sanlpling technique while the stratified sampling procedure was used to select the students. Questionnairc was the instrument used to collect the data. The data were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistical tools. The study revealed that openness to experience trait that students denlonstrate contributes nlore to their likelihood of obtaining high level academic perfonnance. Also, students prefer using read/write and visual learning style when studying. Furthermore, students' personality trait and learning style have significant influence on their academic perfornlance. However, this influence becomes stronger through the mediating effects of students' academic selfdiscipline and self-confidence. The study recommended to course tutors of the College of Distance Education (CoDE), vec to ensure that appropriate learning materials are used in their facilitation to promote diversity among students during face-to-face interactions.