Addresses two questions that may be unique to perceptual learning: What are the circumstances that produce learning? and What is the content of learning? Suggests a critical principle for each question. Provides a discussion of perceptual learning theory, how learning occurs, and what gets learned. Includes a 121-item bibliography. (DR)

Current research in learning style and reading indicates that students' reading achievement and attitudes improve significantly when students are taught to read through their individual styles. Research topics that support this conclusion are listed and implications for improving reading research are discussed. (DF)

The paper reviews studies of field articulation, that is, dimensions of field dependence-independence in social as well as perceptual domains. Field independence, one's ability to isolate an item from its surroundings, is contrasted with field dependence, manifested in one's difficulties analyzing and focusing on specific aspects of a task. The…

The main thrust of American education has been cognitively oriented. Recent research on the human brain suggests that such orientation is a general function of only one hemisphere of the brain, the left. Because of the close relationships among speech, language, thinking, reasoning, and the higher mental functions, the left brain hemisphere…

A number of studies conducted during the last decade have found that students' achievement increases when teaching methods match their learning styles--biological and developmental characteristics that affect how they learn. Correlational studies and experimental research studies are reviewed on instructional environments, perceptual preferences,…

Suggests that individual differences in visual imagery and failure to realize their existence may have affected theories of thought throughout history. Offers possible explanations for the failure to validate thinking style differences in educationally significant ways. Argues that increased understanding of mental imagery can improve teaching.…

A review is presented of research findings on the operation and functions of the two hemispheres of the brain. In tracing discoveries on hemispheric specialization (the left processing information objectively, linguistically, and linearly; the right, spacially, intuitively, and creatively) the importance of achieving a balance between the…

Current research and though regarding the relationship of individual difference (ID) factors to achievement in the basic skills is reviewed. Four major categories and nine subcategories of ID factors are defined and serve as the framework for the review: status factors (age, sex, and race, ethnic group, and socioeconomic status); intelligence…