Data analysis utilized the constant comparative method; participant comments were transcribed, read, and reread, until distinct patterns emerged. Field notes, teacher journal entries, and student written and oral comments were coded and triangulated when appropriate. Mean student scores on an initial and final self assessment rubric were compared. Over 3,000 written and oral student comments were analyzed.
Results indicated Marzano's recommendations for teaching habits of mind were practical and effective. The teacher role centered around maintaining student focus and facilitating student interest. Students were able to label and give examples of habits of mind in their own lives and in the lives of others, to tell how and why habits of mind were helpful, and to transfer habits of mind to new settings. Student overall perceived usage of habits of mind increased 67% from the initial to the final self-assessment rubric. Students' study of mental dispositions seemed to foster intellectual growth as described by Costa. The acquisition of meaningful vocabulary to describe thinking enhanced students' dispositions to think productively. Findings also indicated that assessment of student use of habits of mind requires activities specifically designed to elicit mental dispositions