TLC #022: Attention Deficit Disorder - How To Focus and Sustain Learners’ Attention
In this edition of the Learning Chronicle newsletter, we explore the concept of attention deficit disorder (ADD and ADHD); what they are, their symptoms, causes, and their implications for learning.
Hi,
Here is your weekly dose of “The Learning Chronicle Newsletter” weekly curated content that leverages the science of learning, data, and evidence-based research to help K–12 educators, stakeholders, and learners optimize for how learning happens while preparing learners for the future of work.
Welcome to all new subscribers. I am Omotayo Olorunfemi; a learning and development specialist. Check out the archive for previous editions using the first link above. Welcome!!! Once again.
One Learning Quote
“Knowledge and understanding can be viewed as components of the same thing: knowledge is the collection of concepts represented in the brain, and understanding is the connections that they form between them”. -Efrat Furst
One Article
Attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are common neurodevelopmental disorders that affect children and adults.
Attention deficit disorder is a condition that affects a person's ability to focus, pay attention, and control impulses.
Children with attention deficit disorder have difficulty sustaining attention during tasks, are easily distracted, and often forget things. Additionally, they may struggle with following instructions, organizing tasks, and completing work. These symptoms can lead to academic, social, and behavioural difficulties, which can affect their overall well-being and success in school.
Symptoms of ADD/ADHD
The symptoms of ADD/ADHD can vary depending on the type of disorder. ADHD has four sub-types, namely:
Inattention
Hyperactivity
impulsivity and
Combined.
Inattention refers to difficulties with sustained attention, easily getting distracted, difficulty following through with instructions, and difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
Hyperactivity refers to excessive motor activity, such as fidgeting, running or climbing excessively, and talking excessively.
Impulsivity refers to acting without thinking, such as blurting out answers, interrupting others, and having difficulty waiting for one's turn.
Combined ADHD is a combination of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
NOTE: It is important to note that not all children with attention deficits exhibit hyperactive behaviour. Some may display only inattentive symptoms, making it difficult to identify the disorder. Therefore, it is important to observe the child's behaviour in different settings, including school, home, and social settings, to determine if they have an attention deficit.
Causes of Attention Deficit
ADHD is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Children with ADHD have a lower amount of dopamine and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters responsible for regulating attention and motivation, in certain areas of the brain (NIMH, 2021).
Environmental factors such as prenatal alcohol exposure, prematurity, low birth weight, and exposure to environmental toxins such as lead and pesticides have also been linked to ADHD (CDC, 2021).
Implications of Attention Deficit for Learning
As a K–12 educator, it is important to recognize the symptoms of ADHD and understand how they may impact your learner's academic performance. Learners with ADHD may struggle with completing tasks, following instructions, and staying organized. They may also have difficulty with social interactions, impulsivity, and emotional regulation (NIMH, 2021). These challenges can lead to academic difficulties, behaviour problems, and decreased self-esteem.
Let’s look at some of these symptoms that we may notice in our classroom:
Difficulty Paying Attention and Following Directions
Learners with attention deficits often have difficulty sustaining attention and following directions, which can make it challenging to complete assignments and engage in classroom activities. They may be easily distracted by external stimuli and have difficulty focusing on tasks for an extended period. As a result, they may miss important instructions or information provided by the teacher.
Poor Executive Functioning
Executive function refers to the mental processes involved in planning, organizing, initiating, and completing tasks. Learners with attention deficits often struggle with executive functioning, making it difficult to prioritize tasks and manage their time effectively. They may have difficulty with organization and may forget important assignments, which can lead to academic difficulties.
Impulsive Behavior
Learners with attention deficits may exhibit impulsive behaviour, such as blurting out answers, interrupting others, and acting without considering the consequences. These behaviours can disrupt classroom activities and interfere with the learning of other students.
Social and Emotional Difficulties
Attention deficit can also affect a learner's social and emotional functioning. Learners with attention deficits may struggle with social skills, such as taking turns and sharing and may have difficulty making and maintaining friendships. Additionally, they may experience emotional difficulties, such as low self-esteem and anxiety, which can affect their overall well-being and academic performance.
Evidence-Based Strategies to Support Learners with Attention Deficit
Classroom Accommodations
Classroom accommodations can help support students with attention deficits. Accommodations may include preferential seating, reducing distractions, and providing frequent breaks. Additionally, educators can provide clear instructions and break tasks into smaller, manageable steps to help learners with executive functioning difficulties. Students with ADHD benefit from a structured and predictable environment. Providing a clear schedule and routine can help them stay organized and focused.
Behavioural Interventions
Behavioural interventions, such as positive reinforcement and token economies, can help reinforce positive behaviours and reduce negative behaviours in learners with attention deficit disorders. These interventions involve rewarding learners for appropriate behaviour and providing consequences for inappropriate behaviour.
Parent and Teacher Collaboration
Collaboration between parents and teachers can be beneficial in supporting learners with attention deficits. Teachers can provide feedback on a student's academic and behavioral performance, while parents can provide information on the student's home life and any difficulties they may be experiencing. Working together, parents and teachers can develop strategies to support the student's academic and social-emotional development.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/index.html on 01032023
Daley, D. (2006). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: A review of the essential facts. Child: Care, Health and Development. 32(2):193-204. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2214.2006.00572.x.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Retrieved from the internet at: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd on 01032023
One Video
This five-minute plus video below, posted by Sprouts School on YouTube, aptly sums up the signs, symptoms, and solutions to ADHD.
ADHD: Signs, Symptoms, Solutions
One Learning Question
How would my daily output change if I focused more on what was urgent and important while relegating what was not urgent and important?
What We Are Reading
Sahil Bloom on The Ultimate Productivity Tool
Dr Luke Hobson on The 10 Commandments of Instructional Design (According to ChatGPT)
The Observatory on The Education We Want | Permeable Beings in a Liquid World
That’s a wrap for this week.
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