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Abstract
This mixed methods study sets out to evaluate learning styles in hands on animal science courses where preparing students to join industry post graduation is a goal of the coursework. Working off of Doolittle and Camps definition of behaviorism and constructivism, this study was crafted to combine qualitative and quantitative data to determine which learning method created greater gains in student skill performance, confidence, and satisfaction with coursework. Measurements taken were skill performance scores of a basic and advanced skill, student peak heart rate, average horse heart rate, journal responses, surveys, and VARK learner preference analysis. Overall, findings of this study support constructivism as the more beneficial learning style, as Chi Square analysis produced p values indicating a strong positive relationship between learning by constructivism compared to behaviorism for both skills (p <0.05). Additionally, educators can utilize findings of this study to improve course design and better utilize limited resources.