In order to make intelligent decisions concerning the implementation of reflectively based teacher education programs, educators need to develop a richer, more precise empirical knowledge of the cognitive abilities and orientations of prospective social studies teachers. Research suggesting inferior intellectual capabilities of the faculty and students in schools of education has focused on central tendency while neglecting range, which indicates that higher ability students are attracted to teaching. This investigation used the Harrison Bramson Inquiry Modes Questionnaire to measure the cognitive styles of prospective teachers. Five preferred styles were measured: synthesist, idealist, pragmatist, analyst, and realist. Attitudes toward educational practice were measured using the Education Scale along two dimensions: traditionalism and progressivism. Questionnaires were administered to 132 secondary education majors in social studies, English, mathematics, and science. There were no great differences among social studies majors and those in other subject fields; however, there were differences between higher and lower achieving social studies majors. Additionally, students with a progressive view of education scored higher on synthesism. In general, respondents showed no particular proclivity for specific modes of inquiry, suggesting that future research is needed. A 12-item bibliography, three figures, and four tables are included. (Author/AS)