From Tiktok to tasks: Boosting Executive Functioningin the Classroom

After going to a Learning & The Brain and hearing a session on Executive Functioning I have gone down a rabbit hole. I have been working on a workbook with journal prompts and activities as well as a presentation for teachers in my district for our latest staff development day. See my slides from that day below. 

From TikTok to Tasks: by Nichole Carter

Admin Presentation

Principals TikTok to Tasks: by Nichole Carter

This was a presentation for administrators that focused more on building implementation ideas along with getting to know executive functioning deficits and how to support them in the classroom.

Canva Slides

Teacher Presentation

Ready to dive a little deeper into what executive functioning means and how it impacts students in the classroom? Access my slides here. 

Canva Slides Updated

Google Slides

Executive Functioning in the Classroom Worksheet by Nichole Carter

Here is the document used in the presentation to take notes. You can find the template on Canva.

Canva Note Taking Document

Executive functioning skills are crucial for teens to excel in school and beyond. These cognitive processes, including working memory, cognitive flexibility, organization, time management, response inhibition/impulse control, emotional self-control, auditory attention, visual-spatial processing, task initiation, and focus and task completion, play a pivotal role in students' ability to manage tasks, plan and prioritize, regulate emotions, and achieve academic success.

Executive functioning skills for teens can be developed and strengthened to support academic success. Let's talk about some practical tips and strategies that teens can implement to enhance their executive functioning skills and thrive in school.

Understanding Executive Functioning Skills and Their Impact on Academic Success

Executive functioning skills are the cognitive processes that enable individuals to manage and regulate their thoughts, behaviors, and emotions to achieve specific goals. These skills are critical for academic success as they help students with tasks such as planning, organizing, initiating and completing assignments, managing time effectively, staying focused, and regulating their emotions.
Teens with strong executive functioning skills are better equipped to handle the demands of school, including managing multiple assignments, organizing study materials, managing time, and staying focused during class. On the other hand, students with weak executive functioning skills may struggle with time management, procrastination, forgetfulness, impulsivity, and difficulty shifting between tasks, which can significantly impact their academic performance.

Strategies for Enhancing Executive Functioning Skills in Teens

Fortunately, executive functioning skills can be developed and strengthened with practice and support. Here are some practical strategies that teens can implement to enhance their executive functioning skills and improve their academic success:

1. Develop self-awareness and self-regulation: Help teens develop self-awareness by encouraging them to reflect on their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Teach them self-regulation strategies such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and self-talk to manage stress, frustration, and impulsivity. These skills can help teens improve their emotional self-control and response inhibition, critical for academic success.
2. Practice cognitive flexibility: Cognitive flexibility, or the ability to adapt and switch between tasks or perspectives, is essential for academic success. Encourage teens to engage in activities that challenge their cognitive flexibility, such as puzzles, games, and brainstorming sessions. Teach them strategies to shift between tasks, manage transitions, and adapt to changing situations.
   
3. Provide opportunities for reflection and self-assessment: Regular reflection and self-assessment can help teens monitor their progress, identify areas for improvement, and set goals for growth. Provide opportunities for teens to reflect on their executive functioning skills, such as journaling, self-assessment questionnaires, or feedback sessions. Encourage them to set realistic and achievable goals for
   
4. Create a structured environment: Establishing a structured environment with designated spaces for studying, organizing materials, and managing time can help teens develop organization and time management skills. Encourage them to keep a tidy study area, use calendars or planners to track assignments and deadlines, and create a system for organizing their school materials.
5. Set clear goals and prioritize tasks: Help teens set clear goals and priorities for their academic tasks. Teach them to break down large assignments into smaller, manageable tasks, and encourage them to prioritize tasks based on importance and deadlines. This will help them develop planning and organization skills, and stay focused on their academic goals.
6. Practice time management: Time management is a crucial skill for academic success. Encourage teens to use a schedule or a planner to allocate time for homework, studying, extracurricular activities, and leisure time. Teach them to estimate the time required for each task and stick to the schedule, while also allowing for flexibility and breaks.

To see many more examples of activities, as well as journal prompts see my workbook on amazon! 

Unlocking Your Potential: A Workbook for Developing Executive Functioning Skills for Teens

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See printable packets at Teachers Pay Teachers here.

Packets & Printables

Recent Admin Questions & Follow Up

I recently did a session with all middle school administrators and they had some very good questions that I wanted to follow up with, For example they were curious about how technology use, sleep, and lack of physical activity could attribute to some of the behaviors they were seeing in their buildings. I also brought up planners, as I am want to do, and one admin followed up with a question about the efficacy of a digital planner over a paper physical planner for executive functioning skills. Here is what I was able to find out. 
Impact of Technology Use and Executive TechnologyThere is ongoing research exploring the impact of technology on executive functioning skills in youth. However, it's important to note that research in this field is dynamic, and new studies may be conducting as we speak. Here are some general observations based on research up to now:

1. Attention and Focus:
   
   1. Some studies suggest that excessive use of digital devices, particularly smartphones and social media, might contribute to attention and focus challenges in young people. Constant notifications, multitasking, and frequent device use could potentially affect sustained attention.
      
2. Impulse Control:
   
   1. The instant gratification provided by technology, such as social media likes or immediate access to information, might impact impulse control in youth. Some researchers are investigating how the design of digital interfaces influences impulsive behaviors.
      
3. Cognitive Flexibility:
   
   1. The digital environment, with its rapidly changing content and diverse stimuli, may contribute to the development of cognitive flexibility. On the other hand, concerns have been raised about potential negative effects, such as reduced tolerance for delayed gratification.
      
4. Working Memory:
   
   1. The use of technology, particularly interactive and multimedia content, may have both positive and negative effects on working memory. Educational apps and games designed to challenge working memory can be beneficial, but excessive screen time might have adverse effects.
      
5. Screen Time and Sleep:
   
   1. Research suggests a link between excessive screen time, especially before bedtime, and disrupted sleep patterns in youth. Sleep plays a crucial role in cognitive functioning, including executive functions.
      
6. Social-Emotional Skills:
   
   1. Technology can also influence social-emotional skills. Social media interactions, for example, may impact emotional regulation and interpersonal relationships. The constant comparison and exposure to curated online lives might affect self-esteem.
      

It's important to approach this topic with nuance, recognizing researchers are exploring how the quality and purpose of technology use, as well as the type of content consumed, influence executive functioning.

Physical Movement and Executive FunctioningPhysical movement and exercise have been associated with various cognitive benefits, including positive effects on executive functioning skills, in children and adolescents. Some things to think about in relation to physical movement and executive functioning skills, particularly in the age range of 10-13:

• Enhanced Cognitive Functions:
  
  • Research suggests that regular physical activity positively influences cognitive functions, including executive functions like working memory, attention, and cognitive flexibility.
    
• Attention and Concentration:
  
  • Physical movement has been linked to improvements in attention and concentration. Short bouts of physical activity during the day, "brain breaks," may help rejuvenate attention spans.
    
• Working Memory:
  
  • Engaging in activities that involve both aerobic exercise and cognitive challenges, such as sports or dance, has shown to have a positive impact on working memory.
    
• Cognitive Flexibility:
  
  • Activities that require coordination and adaptability, such as dance or certain sports, can contribute to the development of cognitive flexibility.
    
• Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF):
  
  • Physical activity has been associated with increased levels of BDNF, a protein that supports the growth and maintenance of neurons. BDNF is linked to improved cognitive function and may play a role in executive functioning.
    
• Mood Regulation:
  
  • Exercise is known to have positive effects on mood and emotional well-being. Improved emotional regulation can indirectly contribute to better executive functioning.
    
• Classroom Performance:
  
  • Studies have explored the impact of physical activity programs in schools on academic performance. Incorporating physical education and movement breaks into the school day may positively influence executive functions.
    
• Timing and Frequency:
  
  • While acute bouts of exercise can have immediate cognitive benefits, there's evidence suggesting that regular, sustained physical activity over time is associated with more consistent improvements in executive functions.
    
• Outdoor Activities:
  
  • Exposure to natural environments and outdoor activities may have additional cognitive and psychological benefits. Time spent in nature has been associated with improved attention and reduced stress.
    
• Individual Differences:
  
  • It's important to recognize that the relationship between physical activity and executive functioning can vary among individuals. Factors such as fitness level, the type of activity, and overall health play a role.
    

Digital or Paper Planner for StudentsThe choice between a digital or analog planner often depends on individual preferences, learning styles, and organizational needs. Here are some considerations based on general trends:
Digital Planner:

• Accessibility: Digital planners can be accessed across multiple devices, providing convenience and accessibility, especially for adolescents who are already accustomed to using smartphones, tablets, or laptops.
  
• Reminders and Alerts: Digital planners often come with features like reminders and alerts, helping students stay on top of assignments, deadlines, and other commitments.
  
• Integration with Technology: A digital planner may integrate with other productivity tools and apps, creating a seamless experience for students who prefer a more tech-centric approach.
  

Paper/ Analog Planner:

• Tactile Experience: Some students find the tactile experience of writing things down on paper helpful for memory retention and organization.
  
• Reduced Screen Time: Adolescents who already spend a significant amount of time on digital devices may appreciate a break from screens by using a physical planner.
  
• Customization: Analog planners can be customized with various layouts, colors, and designs, allowing students to personalize their organizational tool.
  

Considerations:

• Learning Style: Some individuals have a preference for visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learning. Understanding a student's learning style can help in choosing a planner that aligns with their preferences.
  
• Trial and Error: It's not uncommon for students to try both digital and analog planners to see which one works best for them. Some may even use a combination, depending on the situation.
  
• Executive Functioning Skills: The choice of planner can also depend on a student's executive functioning skills. For example, those who struggle with organization may find digital tools with reminders more beneficial.
  

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