other method is within class ability grouping. This method groups according to ability in certain subject areas. An example would be a student who is in a lower reading class, but resumes the rest of his classes on a normal level for his age. The implications are less alienating for the student in lower levels, and tend to actually motivate them, more so than between class grouping.3 There are a few ways of learning and processing information in a schooling situation. The term cognitive style refers to the way that we organize information. Some people are considered field dependent. These people tend to look at a situation as a whole, without really being able to pick out, or focusing their efforts on one precise goal. They tend to excel in history, literature, and social situations. Field independent students, on the other hand, monitor their way of thinking to refine it constantly. This is comparable to the way a professional musician practices, they will check every note if needed until the piece reaches the desired sound.Other cognitive styles include impulsive, and reflective. An impulsive student will fly through work, without really thinking or caring about possible mistakes. A reflective student will usually take their time, and check over their work, as well as make sure they have thoroughly thought the concept through.Learning style preference, is the environment in which someone prefers to learn in. Some students apply a deep processing approach, where they search for the complete meaning in something because they really want to absorb, and internalize the information. Then there are the students who just want to do enough to do well on the test. This style is labeled surface processing. Grades and rewards motivate students who prefer this method. Other factors in learning style preferences include students who work better under pressure, or students who study better with music on. Some can work for long peri...
