Correlations between the Visualizer/Imager Cognitive Style and Achievement in Digital Modeling Tasks

AbstractThis paper studies the relationships between Wholist-Analytic (WA) and Verbalizer-Imager (VI) cognitive style dimensions and performance in designing and modeling with traditional and digital design media. An empirical research revealed that design performance in both media positively correlated with being at the Imager side of the cognitive styles continuum. The WA dimension was found to be independent from performance. The Bonferroni tests indicated that the digital modeling mean scores of the Imagers were significantly higher than that of the Verbalizers. The findings suggest that modeling with computers requires specific cognitive actions that may favor visual type of individuals. Implications of the findings on design education are discussed and suggestions are made for further research