title: Field-dependence/independence: considerations in staff development.
abstract: Clinical nurse preceptors, staff development specialists, and staff nurses are becoming more involved with the clinical learning experiences of new graduates, nursing school students, and the highly mobile, experienced nurse. Assessment of learning styles and the cognitive process is necessary for the implementation of successful orientation programs. Consideration of the bipolar learning style of field-dependence/independence can be useful for preceptors involved with teaching in the clinical setting. This article reviews the development of the concept of field-dependence/independence, identifies associated characteristics, and discusses assessment of learning style. Specific teaching strategies for both field-dependent and field-independent learners are discussed.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Ismeurt
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Ismeurt
authors.forename: B K
authors.initials: BK
authors.lastname: Miller
mesh_terms: D003071:Cognition; D005364:Field Dependence-Independence; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training / Q000379:methods*; D007858:Learning; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education; D013192:Staff Development