In the quest to improve children's executive functions (EF) and attention, practitioners often seek evidence-based interventions. The study "Schoolchildren’s Compensatory Strategies and Skills in Relation to Attention and Executive Function App Training" offers valuable insights into effective strategies for EF training. This blog aims to guide practitioners on implementing these findings to enhance their practice and encourage further research.
Key Findings from the Study
The study involved typically developing children aged 6-8 years, using the Nexxo touchscreen application for training inhibition and vigilance tasks. The intervention combined procedural metacognitive strategies with compensatory strategies tailored to individual performance. Here are the key findings:
- Compensatory Strategies: 80.43% of participants required some form of compensatory strategy. Instructional comprehension and self-instruction were the most effective strategies.
- Developmental Factors: Age significantly predicted better performance in EF tasks, with older children showing improved inhibition and vigilance.
- Cognitive Skills: Higher performance in fluid intelligence and cognitive flexibility predicted better vigilance scores.
Implementing Findings in Practice
To enhance EF training in school settings, practitioners can integrate the following strategies based on the study's outcomes:
- Use of Compensatory Strategies: Implement instructional comprehension and self-instruction techniques to support children struggling with EF tasks. These strategies help in goal setting, planning, and monitoring task performance.
- Age-Appropriate Interventions: Tailor interventions to the child's developmental stage. For children up to 8 years old, focus on tasks that improve inhibition and vigilance.
- Incorporate Cognitive Flexibility Training: Design activities that enhance cognitive flexibility, such as tasks requiring frequent rule changes or shifting attention between different stimuli.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides a robust foundation, ongoing research is crucial to refine and expand these strategies. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to this body of knowledge by:
- Conducting Longitudinal Studies: Examine the long-term effects of EF training on academic performance and social adjustment.
- Exploring Diverse Populations: Assess the efficacy of these strategies in children with developmental disorders such as ADHD or autism.
- Innovating Training Techniques: Develop new interventions that combine EF training with other cognitive skills, like working memory or processing speed.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Schoolchildren’s Compensatory Strategies and Skills in Relation to Attention and Executive Function App Training.
