Determining the Effects of Reflection Type and Cognitive Style on Students' Content Knowledge

Abstract

The purpose of this exploratory, experimental study was to determine the effects that the type of reflection-in-action and students’ cognitive style had on content knowledge of preservice agriculture teachers (N = 57) at Oklahoma State University. Students’ cognitive style was assessed using Kirton’s Adaptation-Innovation Inventory (KAI). Students were classified as either more adaptive or more innovative. Students were assigned randomly to either a verbal or written reflection-in-action group in the completely randomized 2x2 design. A Lab Aids® classroom kit, based on the principles of biofuels, served as the content for the treatment. The findings of this study indicated that cognitive style and type of reflection-in-action did not affect students’ knowledge scores in an agriscience laboratory positively or negatively. As such, teachers can utilize either type of reflection-in-action without detriment to student learning. As this study was exploratory in nature, it is recommended that it be replicated with a larger sample size to increase generalizability. Additional research should focus on pairing students of similar and opposite cognitive styles to determine how their problem-solving ability and performance on tests is affected.