Field-dependent-independent cognitive style in solving dynamics problems

Psychol Rep. 2003 Jun;92(3 Pt 1):867-80. doi: 10.2466/pr0.2003.92.3.867.

Abstract

251 senior middle school (Grade 11) students were tested on the Chinese Group Embedded Figures Test and Dynamic Problems Test. A 2 (cognitive style) x 2 (sex) analysis of variance indicated a nonsignificant effect with respect to cognitive style in solving easier Dynamics problems but a main significant effect in solving complex Dynamics problems. Multiple comparisons (post hoc t tests) indicated that cognitive style is a significant factor among boys but not girls. The difference between Field-independent students and Field-dependent students in solving complex Dynamics problems may be that the former students more easily form a clear map of motion than the latter students.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • China
  • Factor Analysis, Statistical
  • Female
  • Field Dependence-Independence*
  • Humans
  • Individuality
  • Internal-External Control*
  • Male
  • Personality Inventory / statistics & numerical data*
  • Physics / education*
  • Problem Solving*
  • Psychometrics / statistics & numerical data
  • Sex Factors
  • Students / psychology