What is the impact of instructional design on Executive Function? -

There are two parts of designing a course. There is the content itself (the subject matter you are knowledgeable about), and then there's the design of your course.

Many instructors start out with online learning due to the fact that they understand the subject area quite proficiently. However, unless they've taken teaching courses, they usually must learn a great deal about the best way to communicate the information.

One of the psychological concepts that are important to the design of instructional programs and student success is that of executive function.

"Executive role" is the name used to describe the higher-order brain processes that manage the flow of thoughts, recall the instructions given, organize and keep focus. Different individuals have various degrees of executive function. Certain people are born with high levels, characterized by an ability to remain focussed and "in the present" as much as necessary. Some, like those with ADHD are afflicted with weak executive functions and are unable to remain focused.

Executive function can improve over time. But it is also affected due to anxiety, stress, or even trauma. Anyone struggling with executive function issues needs an instructor who is mindful of the issues. Teachers can assist learners with design options that help the ability of a student to focus while also eliminating distracting factors. Here's how.

1. Get rid of distracting visuals and distractions.

Anyone who defines themselves as "easily disorientable" recognizes how hard it is to stay focused. An instruction with menus, sidebars, or buttons entices their attention. People with executive dysfunction might be trying to resist these opportunities. But the effort that is required to stay away from them becomes a drain on their ability to learn. It is possible that they avoid the screenbut this effort keeps them from remembering key content, and they may quit sooner because they are tired.

2. Visual cues can be used to determine hierarchy and importance.

The majority of students who have trouble with executive function also struggle to establish priorities and create plans. When they have multiple tasks, they may avoid doing them due to the fact that they aren't able to make their decisions.

Help remove your learner's doubts by establishing tasks with priorities. Additionally, organize details on your website to show what is the most important. Utilize headers to help students navigate through blocks of text. Beware of filling outs with irrelevant information. Mark important details that the students must remember.

3. Create a calendar and post reminders.

Management of time is an important executive task. While you can't hand-hold your students, you shouldn't leave it all entirely to them. In terms of time management, you can help your students by posting the class schedule as well as send reminders to students for due dates. Include time estimations for what time you believe every step could require. This will help the student determine when they can complete their work, and can reduce anxiety if they realize that each step is likely to take a few minutes.

4. Use visual aids to help learners remember processes.

Infographics along with other types of visual aids will also aid learners in remembering procedures. This is critical in areas in which thoroughness and focus on detail are requisite skills. Develop an infographic that guides students through steps to minimize the chances of errors caused by poor memory.

5. Create branching scenarios to promote emotion control, control of impulses, and self-monitoring.

6. Apply gamification to encourage learners with task initiation.

People with problems with executive function tend to be chronic procrastinators. They not only struggle to focus on what they're doing, but also have a difficult time even starting. Gamification is a great way to improve the task's beginning. Gamification increases engagement and decreases barriers for starting course work. Incorporate a gameplay element, and the process can feel fun.

Here are some easy strategies to easily add gamification

7. Review the progress of learners that are lagging behind.

If you are aware that someone struggling in school, don't leave them to struggle on their own. Make sure you reach out to your learners and soliciting their help. Offer time slots to connect through video chat. Create a list of options to offer to support them with options that you can manage for yourself.

The problem of executive function is common however, your course could help learners stay focused.

Many learners struggle with executive functioning issues. This can manifest in the form of distractedness, repeated mistakes, late homework, inattention, and general frustration.

Instructors as an instructor, you have access to instruments to assist your learners. Create a course that minimizes distracting students, allows them to establish goals, facilitates engagement and clearly demonstrates the importance. With these tools, you'll have come far in helping your learners to success.

Find out how you can help your students stay focused when they explore the video today.