Computer Homework and Executive Function Skills

Unlike the conventional books and papers in an obvious stack to be studied and then gathered up in readiness for school the next day, the relatively out-of-sight computer obligations may be overlooked far more easily.   

When doing homework on a computer, the student needs to take multiple sequential steps to make certain that he is aware of all assignments and that all are completed.  Solid executive function skills enable the student to do this successfully.  

All subject screens must be opened during each study session so that assignments aren’t overlooked and teacher messages aren’t missed.  

Within an individual subject site there may be several assignments such as required reading, questions to be answered, and perhaps a short essay to be written.

After completing a section of a specific subject’s homework, the entire subject assignment has to be reviewed to be certain that all sections within that screen have been completed.  Any questions regarding the homework must be noted either on the computer or on paper.  Then the student must remember to continue on to the next subject, and then the next.  A checklist for all subjects may be necessary.   

Prominent reminders of term papers or projects are needed so that the student makes appropriate consistent progress toward completing these more lengthy assignments.  

To maximize learning from computer study and homework, students need computer competency.  For example, they need to readily navigate and work with the required sites; they need to be mindful that they must save and submit their work.  Such operations as the ‘dragging and dropping’ into place the answers to ‘fill in the blank’ questions may distract the student from the subject matter.  Students need typing skills for letters and numbers as well as the making of symbols for calculations.  The student may visualize the symbol for addition and have difficulty finding it on the keyboard, interrupting his focus on the math problem itself.  Typing requires development of a fluent coordination with finger motions different than those used in the forming of a letter, number or symbol in handwriting.  

Strong executive function skills assist the student’s ability to study and to learn.  These executive function skills include: 

    • the ability to maintain attention, to persevere with focus when appropriate.  The ability to hold an intention, plan the activity, get started, monitor progress, and follow through to completion.

   • the ability to shift attention when necessary. Having mental flexibility to use various calculations to solve math problems, to explore new opinions, to move on to another subject.  Shifting ability also allows us to adapt to new environments.

    • organization – maintaining orderliness, prioritizing, being prepared.  

    • time management – scheduling, awareness of assignments, planning ahead, preparation, understanding the consequences of procrastination, appreciating the confidence from being ready.  

   • short term working memory – ability to recall instructions and newly presented knowledge 

   • impulse control and emotional regulation – behaving appropriately, having successful social interactions and peer pressure management, avoiding risky actions, resisting off-track impulses.      

At Lear Educational Center we teach study skills, learning strategies and techniques that enhance the executive functions of our students.  We provide supportive one-to-one, systematized, intensive, individualized academic tutoring on all levels, primary through college, for most subjects. 

We interface with schools, working with the curriculum appropriate for each student to meet IEP and remediation goals to bring him up to grade level and to advance.  We specialize in teaching students with learning differences, accommodate and compensate for their individual needs. 

At Lear Educational Center we also provide preparation for ACT, PSAT, SAT and other standardized tests. 

Lear Educational Center - providing tutoring services to students from Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton and the Greater Lehigh Valley since 2000