An Analysis of Student Learning Patterns in Short-Cycle Higher Education

Abstract

Independent and effective learning plays a crucial role in higher education. In this context, it is essential to explore the methods and tools that enhance learning outcomes. The first step in optimizing the learning process is identifying individual learning styles, as awareness of these can help students apply the techniques most effective for them. The aim of our study was to explore the learning characteristics of students enrolled in short-cycle higher education programmes in Hungary (n = 1628). Data collection was carried out through a questionnaire-based survey conducted in 23 Hungarian higher education institutions, involving both full-time and part-time students across all fields of study. Our research focused on identifying the learning methods and tools commonly used by students and how these contribute to learning efficiency. The data were analyzed by field of study, and a range of statistical methods were used to test our hypotheses. Overall, our research contributes to a deeper understanding of the learning characteristics of students in higher education vocational training. Our findings highlight that commitment to independent learning and intrinsic motivational factors—such as a thirst for knowledge, curiosity, and career goals—play a decisive role in the learning process. At the same time, external obligations and deficiencies in learning organization present significant challenges for students. Through a cluster-based analysis of learning strategies, we were able to identify distinct patterns that reflect the diverse learning pathways students follow. Our study provides valuable insights into the learning strategies of a student population that has received limited attention in Hungarian educational research since the transformation of short-cycle higher education programmes.