Developing executive functioning skills is a critical component of student success, yet these skills are often overlooked in traditional educational curricula. Executive functioning encompasses a range of competencies, including organization, time management, planning, task initiation, test-taking strategies, note-taking, responsible use of technology, and effective communication. While some students enter school with a foundational understanding of these skills, many do not. It is a misconception to assume that students acquire executive functioning abilities naturally by upper grades without explicit instruction.
Why Executive Functioning Skills Matter
Research consistently underscores the importance of executive functioning in academic achievement and overall student well-being. Students with well-developed executive functioning skills not only perform better academically but also navigate social interactions more effectively. This strong correlation highlights the need for educators to intentionally integrate the teaching of these skills into their daily routines across all subject areas.
Concrete Strategies for Teaching Executive Functioning
1. Organization
Organization is a foundational executive functioning skill that can dramatically impact a student’s academic experience. For example, dedicating a few minutes to teach students how to organize their lockers or backpacks can prevent lost materials and reduce the stress associated with disorganization. A teacher might model how to group materials by subject and encourage students to perform weekly cleanouts. These small investments of time can save hours of frustration later, fostering a more focused and efficient learning environment.
2. Professional Communication
Effective communication, particularly in digital formats, is another critical skill. Educators can guide students in composing professional emails to their teachers. For instance, teaching students to use appropriate salutations, concise subject lines, and polite closings not only improves their writing skills but also fosters respect and professionalism. Students who master this skill are more likely to receive timely and supportive responses, setting them up for success in academic and future professional contexts.
3. Time Management with Planners
Teaching students how to use planners or digital calendars to track assignments and deadlines is vital. Allocating a few minutes each week to review upcoming tasks helps students build responsibility and reduce procrastination. For example, a teacher might begin class with a brief “schedule check,” where students update their planners with due dates and reminders. Studies have shown that students who regularly use planning tools are more likely to meet deadlines and demonstrate higher levels of academic performance.
4. Study Aids and Active Recall
Introducing students to study aids, such as flashcards, can significantly enhance test preparation and retention. Research supports the effectiveness of active recall methods, with students who employ strategies like flashcard use consistently outperforming peers who rely solely on passive review. Teachers can model how to create and use flashcards effectively, incorporating this practice into study sessions or homework assignments.
5. Goal Setting
Goal setting is a transformative executive functioning skill. By helping students develop specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals, educators can instill a sense of purpose and direction. For instance, a teacher might work with a student to set a goal of improving their math test scores by 10% over the next month by dedicating 20 minutes daily to practice. Research indicates that students who set specific and challenging goals tend to perform better academically and are more motivated to achieve them.
The Broader Impact of Teaching Executive Functioning Skills
Teaching executive functioning is not just an educational necessity but a responsibility. These skills empower students to become organized, responsible, and effective learners—traits that extend beyond the classroom. By dedicating time to these areas, educators prepare students for the complexities of adulthood, including higher education, careers, and personal responsibilities.
For instance, integrating executive functioning skills into classroom routines can contribute to a more respectful and productive school culture. Students learn to manage their time, respect deadlines, and communicate effectively, which reduces conflicts and enhances collaboration among peers and teachers.
A Shared Responsibility
As educators, our mission extends beyond delivering content knowledge. We are tasked with preparing students for life—academically, socially, and professionally. Incorporating executive functioning instruction into our classrooms is not just beneficial; it is essential. These skills lay the groundwork for students to thrive, helping them transition seamlessly into the demands of adulthood and contributing to a more organized and capable society.
Investing a few minutes of class time to teach and reinforce executive functioning skills is a small but powerful way to impact student success. By prioritizing the whole student—not just their academic achievements—we fulfill our responsibility as educators to nurture well-rounded, resilient individuals prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
References
Biederman, J., et al. (2004). Journal of School Psychology.
Dawson, P., & Guare, R. (2010). Executive Skills in Children and Adolescents.
Smith, L., & Jones, F. (2015). International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education.
Zimmerman, B.J. (2002). Journal of Educational Psychology.
Kornell, N., & Bjork, R.A. (2008). Psychological Science.
Locke, E.A., & Latham, G.P. (2002). Theory of Goal Setting & Task Performance.