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

There are two parts in the design of any course. It's the content (the area of study you're knowledgeable about) as well as the design of your course.

Many instructors start out in online education because they know their subject matter quite thoroughly. But, unless they've had the opportunity to take the teaching course, they generally need to master a few things regarding how to present this information.

A psychological concept that is important to the design of instructional programs and the student's success is that of executive function.

"Executive task" is the name used that describes the brain processes that manage impulses, remember instructions, plan and remain focused. People have different levels of executive function. Some are born with high levels of executive function, which is characterized by the ability to stay focused and "in the moment" as much as necessary. Others, such as those suffering from ADHD are afflicted with low executive function and struggle to keep their focus.

The executive function may improve with time. However, it can be affected by factors such as stress, anxiety, or even trauma. Anyone struggling with executive function issues needs instructors who are aware of these issues. Teachers can assist learners through design choices that support a learner's ability to focus while also eliminating distracting factors. Here's how.

1. Eliminate distractions and visual clutter.

Any person who describes themselves as "easily distracted" knows how difficult to remain focused. The lessons that have menus, sidebars and buttons beg for their focus. People with executive dysfunction might be trying to avoid these temptations. However, the willpower required to resist them can drain their learning. It is possible that they avoid the screens, but it keeps them from remembering key content, and they may leave faster because they feel burnt out.

2. Use visual cues to establish hierarchy and priority.

The majority of students who have trouble in executive functioning also have a difficult time to set priorities and make plans. If they are faced with multiple projects, they may delay doing one since they don't know how to organize their decisions.

Help remove your learner's hesitations by creating task priorities. Also, arrange details on your website so that you can show what's most important. Utilize headers to help students navigate through text blocks. Do not fill too many call out boxes with unnecessary information. Mark important details that students need to keep in mind.

3. Post a schedule and create reminders.

Time management is a key executive function task. While you can't hand-hold your students, you shouldn't leave it all up to them. For time management, support your learners by sharing the schedule of your course and reminding them of the due dates. Post time estimates for how long you think each stage will take. This could help students determine when they can get the work done and reduce anxiety if they realize that the next task will be a matter of minutes.

4. Utilize visual aids to aid learners retain processes.

Infographics along with other types of visual aids can also help learners remember the steps. This is essential in situations in which thoroughness and focus on particulars are essential skills. Create an infographic that walks users through steps that will decrease the chance of error due to poor memory.

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

6. Use gamification in order to motivate learners by introducing tasks.

People with problems with executive function are usually chronic procrastinators. Not only do these learners find it difficult to concentrate on the task they're working on, they also have a difficult time even starting. Gamification can improve task starting. Gaming can increase engagement and reduce the obstacles to completing course work. Add in a simple gaming element, and learning is fun.

Here are some easy strategies that can be easily added to gamification

7. Review the progress of learners who are struggling.

Finally, if you notice someone struggling in school, don't leave them to struggle on their own. Take the initiative to reach towards your learners and asking them if they need help. Give them time to chat via video chat. You can think of some solutions you might offer to support them which are suitable for your needs.

The problem of executive function is common, but your course can assist students in keeping their focus.

A lot of learners have executive functioning issues. These may present as distractedness, repeated mistakes, late homework, inattention, and general frustration.

Instructors, you are not without tools to support your learners. Plan a course to reduce the distraction of students, assists them in creating prioritization, which makes it easier to engage and clearly demonstrates the importance. With these tools and strategies, you'll be able to go an extensive way in making your students successful.

Find out how you can help your students stay focused when they explore the demo now.