How does Instructional Design Influence the Executive Function? -
There are two components in the design of any course. The first is the content (the topic you're an an expert in), and then there's the instructional design.
Most instructors get started with online learning because they know their subject matter very proficiently. If they've not taken teaching courses, they usually need to master a few things about how to deliver that information.
One of the psychological concepts that are pertinent to instructional design and student success is that of executive function.
"Executive function" is the term that describes the brain processes that manage impulses, remember directions, make plans and remain focused. People have different degrees of executive function. Many are born with higher levels of executive function, which is characterized by the ability to remain concentrated and "in the present" in the best way possible. Some, like people with ADHD, have weak executive functions and are unable to keep their focus.
The executive function may improve with time. But it is also affected through anxiety, stress or trauma. Someone who struggles with executive dysfunction requires an instructor who is mindful of those difficulties. Instructors can also help learners with design options that help a learner's ability to prioritize while also removing distractions. Here's how.
1. Remove the visual distractions and distracting objects.
If you're someone who describes yourself as "easily distractable" recognizes how hard staying focused can be. The lessons that have menus, sidebars, or buttons can be arousing for attention. Students with problems with executive function might be trying to avoid these distractions. The willpower it takes to avoid them can drain their learning. It is possible that they avoid the screen, but the effort keeps them from remembering key information, and they could be more likely to leave because they feel burnt out.
2. Utilize visual cues to establish hierarchy and priority.
A lot of learners struggling with executive function struggle to establish priorities and create plans. When they have multiple tasks and tasks, they could avoid doing them because they can't make up their decisions.
Help remove your learner's doubts by establishing tasks with priorities. As well, you can arrange the information on your site to show what is the most crucial. Use headers to guide learners through the text. Beware of filling out boxes that contain unnecessary data. Mark important details that students need to keep in mind.
3. Create a calendar and post reminders.
Management of time is an important job of the executive. While you can't hand-hold the students you teach, you do not have to leave the entire process up to them. When it comes to managing time, help your learners by sharing the schedule of your course and sending out reminders for the due dates. Make time estimates of the amount of time each stage will take. This could help students determine when they can complete their work as well as reduce the likelihood of procrastination if they see each step is likely to be a matter of minutes.
4. Utilize visual aids to aid students remember the steps.
Infographics and other visual tools can also help learners remember procedures. This is crucial in fields where thoroughness and attention to particulars are essential qualities. Develop an infographic that guides students through steps to reduce instances of user error due to poor memory.
5. Develop branching scenarios that encourage impulse control, emotional control and self-monitoring.
6. Apply gamification to encourage learners to take on tasks.
The people who have problems with executive functioning tend to be chronic procrastinators. Not only do these learners struggle to focus on what they're doing, but also are unable to begin. Gamification can improve task initiation. Gamification builds engagement and lowers barriers for starting learning. Add in a simple game element and learning will be enjoyable.
Here are some easy strategies for easily adding gamification:
7. Make sure you check in with students who are falling behind.
Finally, if you notice someone struggling in school and is struggling, don't let them be a mess. Be proactive in reaching towards your learners and soliciting their assistance. Offer time slots to connect through video chat. You can think of some solutions you might suggest to help them out with options that you can manage for yourself.
Executive function problems are common, but your course can assist students in keeping their focus.
Most learners face executive functioning issues. This can manifest in the form of distractedness and repeated errors, being late to working, apathy, or general frustration.
Instructors as an instructor, you have access to the tools you need to help your students. Plan a course to reduce distracting students, allows them to establish priorities, makes engagement easier, and visually demonstrates priority. Utilizing these techniques, you'll have come far in making your students successful.
Find out how you can help your students remain focused by exploring the video right now.