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Cognitive Styles in Educational Practice

Author(s):
Messick, Samuel J.
Publication Year:
1982
Report Number:
RR-82-13
Source:
ETS Research Report
Document Type:
Report
Page Count:
30
Subject/Key Words:
Cognitive Style, Educational Environment, Educational Practices, Individual Differences, Student Behavior, Teacher Behavior, Teaching Methods

Abstract

This paper examines characteristic features of cognitive styles and the distinctive ways in which they differ from one another and from intellective abilities. Educational implications of cognitive styles are discussed in terms of six main rubrics: Improving instructional methods, Enriching teacher behavior and conceptions, Enhancing student learning and thinking strategies, Expanding guidance and vocational decision making, Broadening educational goals and outcomes, and Tuning the stylistic demands of educational environments. Reasons why cognitive styles should have educational impact are addressed as well as reasons why such educational benefits are difficult to realize. (30pp.)

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