One’s mental dispositions influence
the other types of thinking described in the model. According to Marzano et
al. (1992), habits of mind may be the most important dimension since they
"permeate all the others" (p. 211). Poor habits of mind usually lead to poor
learning, regardless of skill or ability. Researchers and theorists such as Ennis,
Paul, Costa, Perkins, Flavell, and Amabile have identified a number of
mental habits that characterize expertise: being sensitive to feedback, seeking
accuracy and precision, persisting even when answers and solutions are not
apparent, viewing situations in unconventional ways, and avoiding
impulsivity (Marzano, 1992; p. 14-15). According to Marzano (1992), use of
mental habits makes learning "effective and efficient" (p. 15). Lauren Resnick
(1987) states that operating from these mental dispositions renders thinking
"higher order in nature" (p. 41).