What type of students prefer what components of a blended learning environment? A cluster-analytic investigation

In the teaching of introductory statistics to first year students economics and business, the Maastricht University uses a blended learning environment that allows students to design a individualized environment by attuning available learning tools to personal preferences. The blended learning environment consists of tutorials based on the problem-based learning principle, lectures, independent learning and an electronic learning environment based upon knowledge space theory: ALEKS. Usage of only the first component is required; the usage of other components can be set according to individual preferences. In this study, we will focus on the intensity of the use of the electronic learning environment ALEKS and investigate the relationship between this and student learning dispositions in a cluster analytic study. Data of about 4650 students taking this course are used. This study aims to contribute on the topic ‘development of tools to improve students’learning of statistics’.