As Special Education Directors, we are constantly seeking innovative and effective strategies to support our students. The research article, "Principles of Integrated Cognitive Training for Executive Attention: Application to an Instrumental Skill," provides compelling evidence for the efficacy of Integrated Cognitive Training (ICT) in improving reading skills in children with dyslexia.
Recent studies highlighted in this research have demonstrated that ICT can significantly enhance both reading speed and accuracy by targeting the executive attention system and working memory capacity. Here are some practical takeaways for practitioners looking to implement these findings in their own settings:
- Empathy and Motivation: Ensure that the treatment is administered by an empathic and motivating operator. This human element is crucial in enhancing the effects of the training.
- Adaptive Training: Tailor the exercises to the individual's current abilities. Adjust the difficulty level to ensure that the tasks are neither too easy nor too challenging, avoiding automatic and stereotyped responses.
- Pre-Activation Exercises: Implement pre-training activities to prepare students for the cognitive tasks ahead. These can include simple motor or naming exercises to regulate emotional and attentional states.
- Integrated Approach: Combine exercises that stimulate both specific skills (e.g., reading) and executive attention components. This dual focus is essential for creating lasting improvements.
The research includes two experiments that demonstrate the significant improvements in reading skills among children with dyslexia who underwent ICT. These children showed notable gains in reading speed and accuracy, which were sustained even four months after the training had ended. This evidence underscores the potential of ICT to make a lasting impact on students' academic performance.
For practitioners, these findings suggest a promising approach to address reading difficulties. By incorporating ICT into your interventions, you can help students with dyslexia achieve better outcomes. Additionally, staying informed about the latest research and continuing to refine your methods based on evidence-based practices will ensure that you provide the best possible support to your students.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Principles of Integrated Cognitive Training for Executive Attention: Application to an Instrumental Skill
