Tested 2,400 three- to five-year olds for cognitive style and observed their play behaviors. Repeated measures multivariate analysis indicated that field-independent children engaged in more play than did field-dependent children. Significant interaction was found for age, cognitive style, and play behaviors. Older field-independent children…

Describes cognitive style in terms of field dependence-independence, and five tests of cognitive style for young children. Discusses the relationship between cognitive style and academic achievement in young children. (RJC)

The relationship between cognitive style and academic performance was examined in a study of first- and third-grade students. The research focused on the differences in academic achievement of field-dependent-independent children and differences affected by sex and grade level. Results are presented. (DF)

Cognitive styles characterize individuals' personalities as well as their social and cognitive functioning. An assessment of cognitive style can present another dimension of individual differences in children as the basis for planning and evaluating early childhood programs. (Author/LC)

A literature review describes several dimensions of cognitive styles in an effort to illustrate individual stylistic differences. Discusses the field dependence-independence dimension, taking into account age, sex, and cultural differences. Suggests that cognitive style theory needs to be structured in a broader theoretical framework. (NH)

Examined children's cognitive style and their play in different play areas according to sex and age. Found that females played most in the physical, block, manipulative, and dramatic play areas, while males played most in block play. Four-year olds played most in physical, block, and dramatic play, while five-year olds most often chose…

The relationship of teachers' cognitive styles and their pupils' achievement was examined for second and fifth graders. Results indicated significant effects due to teachers' cognitive styles, but there was no significant outcome (main or interaction effect) associated with the matching of teachers' and pupils' cognitive styles, or with grade…

Cognitive styles are broad, systematic characteristics that influence people's responses in different situations. Field dependence independence (FDI) is the cognitive style construct that has generated the most research. Describes the FDI characteristics in young children's social behaviors, including their social orientation, people-versus-object…