Student Characteristics	Field Independent Cognitive Style	Field Dependent Cognitive Style
Overall characteristics	Focuses on parts, rather than on the whole Is reality oriented to objects and analyses of discrete elements Demonstrates topic centered narrative style	Focuses on the whole, rather than the parts Is reality oriented to relationships and social attributes Demonstrates topic associating narrative style
Relationship to peers:	Prefers to work independently Likes to compete and gain individual recognition Is task oriented and inattentive to social environment when working	Likes to work with others to achieve a common goal Likes to assist others Is sensitive to feelings and opinions of others
Personal relationship to teacher:	Rarely seeks physical contact with teacher Interacts with teacher to tasks at hand	Openly expresses positive feelings for teacher Asks questions about teacher's tastes and personal experiences; seeks to become like teacher
Instructional relationship to teacher:	Likes to try new tasks without teacher's help Is impatient to begin tasks; likes to finish first Seeks nonsocial rewards	Seeks guidance and demonstration from teacher Seeks rewards which strengthen relationship with teacher Is highly motivated when working individually with teacher
Characteristics of curriculum that facilitate learning:	Details of concepts are emphasized; parts have meanings of their own Mathematics and science concepts are emphasized Emphasis placed on discovery	Performance objectives and global aspects of curriculum are carefully explained Concepts are presented in humanized or story format Concepts are related to personal interests and experiences