by dragana.maksimovic -

Can EEG technology shape the future of education?

From the early days of childhood to the challenges of formal education, the brain undergoes dynamic changes. Scientists and educators at Synapse School and Stanford University are joining forces to study how schooling influences brain development, aiming to gain insights that can revolutionize the learning experience. The Brainwave Learning Center, equipped with an EEG laboratory, plays a pivotal role in this journey, providing a unique tool for students to actively engage with the science of learning.

At the Synapse School in Menlo Park, California, students have the opportunity to visit the Brainwave Learning Center—a hub where neuroscience and education converge. Equipped with stretchy caps featuring over a hundred sensors, students engage in educational games and guided meditation while their brain waves are measured in real-time. This interactive experience not only allows children to witness their brain activity but also fosters a sense of ownership and understanding of their own learning process.

Recent advances in neuroimaging technologies, such as MRI and wearable brain-wave sensors, provide unprecedented insights into the developing brain circuits of reading, math, and attention. Large-scale studies, involving thousands of schoolchildren, offer a comprehensive understanding of neurodiversity and how it correlates with educational achievements, home environments, and extracurricular activities.

EEG technology has enabled researchers to explore how specific learning experiences drive changes in brain function and structure. Studies, including MRI imaging of struggling readers undergoing intensive tutoring, have demonstrated the remarkable plasticity of the brain in response to targeted educational interventions. These findings challenge traditional notions of learning disabilities and emphasize the crucial role of tailored educational support in shaping both the mind and brain. Teachers play a central role in guiding students‘ learning experiences. A study involving artificial symbol learning revealed that teachers‘ instructional choices can influence the brain circuits associated with word recognition. This emphasizes the significance of effective teaching methods in directing learning and impacting the changing landscape of brain circuits.

“Kids come to us ready to learn. The question is do we feed that desire to learn by nurturing curiosity and giving them experiences that encourage them to see the value and the power of learning? That’s what we should be doing. That’s what we should be focused on.” – Pedro Noguera, professor of education at UCLA

Synapse School’s partnership with Stanford University extends beyond traditional academic subjects, delving into social-emotional learning, mindfulness practices, empathy, creativity, self-control, and problem-solving. The continuity between the neuroscience lab and the school environment allows researchers to explore how these factors influence brain circuits involved in human development.

As students progress from kindergarten to middle school, the BLC continues to trace their brain circuits‘ development through repeated EEG measurements. The combination of brain measures with behavioral assessments aims to provide insights into individual strengths and vulnerabilities, guiding the development of targeted instructional approaches.

References and relevant links:

https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/trend/archive/spring-2020/putting-neuroscience-in-the-classroom-how-the-brain-changes-as-we-learn

https://www.synapseschool.org/innovation/blc

https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/articles/2019/11/01/the-future-of-learning-the-evolving-classroom

by dragana.maksimovic -

Assistive technology for ADHD

Living with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can present challenges, particularly when it comes to staying focused and organized. Fortunately, the digital age has brought forth a plethora of assistive technologies aimed at helping individuals with ADHD manage their tasks and improve concentration. In this guide, we explore a variety of apps, gadgets, and tools designed to enhance the learning experience and boost productivity for ADHD students, both in the classroom and at home.

1. Apps for Focus and Organization

In the world of assistive technology, there truly is an app for almost everything. Whether it’s creating to-do lists, setting reminders, or engaging in exercises to control ADHD symptoms, apps can be powerful tools. Friendship Circle, Understood.org, and ADDitude magazine offer curated lists of apps tailored to address attention and learning issues. Utilizing features such as calendar reminders, alarms, and photo annotations can further enhance organizational skills.

2. Hardware, Software, and Video Games

Hardware and software solutions also play a crucial role in assisting ADHD students. Livescribe, for example, combines the convenience of a pen with digital capabilities, allowing handwritten notes to be sent to smartphones. Gadgets and software recommended by experts like Dr. Marshall Raskind and Kristin Stanberry offer subject-specific support in areas such as math, reading, and writing.

Video games, often frowned upon, can be turned into allies. Games that require flexible thinking, memory, and planning can help ADHD students improve their focus. NASA-developed educational software, listed on the ADD/ADHD Support Site, originated from studies to keep pilots alert during long flights.

3. Task Timers and White Noise

Task timers, such as Focus Booster and MotivAider, assist students in managing distractions and learning time management skills. These tools gently remind students to pay attention or switch tasks. The Time Timer, available as an app or a physical clock, visually represents the passage of time, aiding children, in particular, with completing tasks or taking breaks.

White noise, a proven aid for focus, can be incorporated into a student’s routine using apps like White Noise or noise-canceling headphones. Research even suggests that white noise in the classroom can be as effective as medication in helping students with ADHD learn.

4. Cloud Storage for Organization

Cloud storage, offered by platforms like Google Drive and Dropbox, helps students with ADHD stay organized by preventing the loss of important assignments. Saving documents to the cloud ensures accessibility from various locations, reducing the risk of misplacement.

The vast array of assistive technologies available today offers hope and support for individuals with ADHD. By integrating these tools into daily routines, ADHD students can not only cope with challenges but also thrive academically and personally. Embracing technology as an ally, we pave the way for a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.

References and relevant links:

https://disabilitycreditcanada.com/10-best-assistive-technologies-add-adhd/

https://study.com/blog/how-technology-can-help-your-adhd-student-stay-focused.html

https://www.additudemag.com/assistive-technology-education-applications-adhd-students/

https://us.livescribe.com/

by dragana.maksimovic -

Educational tools and strategies for students with ADHD

Before diving into specific tools and strategies, let’s briefly outline the common characteristics of students with ADHD:

– Impatience and impulsivity

– Difficulty sitting still

– Disruption during instruction

– Easy distractibility

– Forgetfulness and loss of personal items

– Avoidance of tasks and homework

School-Based Strategies:

1. Behavioral Classroom Management:

   – A teacher-led approach that promotes positive behaviors through reward systems.

   – Shown to increase academic engagement across various age groups.

2. Organizational Training:

   – Teaches time management, planning skills, and organizational strategies to optimize learning.

   – Effective for children and adolescents, promoting better focus and reduced distractions.

3. Special Education Services and Accommodations:

   – Governed by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

   – Offers individualized education programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans with accommodations tailored to the child’s needs.

4. Teacher Involvement:

   – Communication strategies for teachers, including frequent positive feedback, sensitivity to emotional challenges, and providing extra warnings.

   – Tailoring assignments, offering choices, and minimizing distractions in the classroom.

5. Parent Education and Support:

   – Guidance for parents on understanding ADHD, advocating for their child, and actively participating in the development of IEP or 504 Plans.

   – Encouragement to maintain a good working relationship with the school while advocating for their child’s needs.

ADHD Tools for the Classroom:

1. Fidget Tools:

   – Stress balls, silly putty, and chewable necklaces channel energy in a positive way.

   – Benefits: Discreet and effective, supports sensory needs.

2. Alternative Seating Options:

   – Swivel chairs, wobble chairs, disk seats, standing desks, and swinging footrests offer alternative choices.

   – Benefits: Varied options for individual preferences, promotes engagement.

3. Assistive Learning Tools:

   – Reading, Math, Writing, and Organizational Tools provide tailored support for ADHD students.

   – Benefits: Addresses individual learning challenges, promotes engagement.

Strategies for Managing ADHD Symptoms:

1. Classroom Environment Modifications:

   – Structuring the classroom to reduce distractions and providing designated movement areas.

   – Benefits: Minimizes distractions, supports diverse learning styles.

2. Concrete Methods for Classroom Management:

   – Clear, concise instructions, immediate consequences for rule-breaking, and structured activities.

   – Benefits: Creates a predictable and supportive learning environment.

3. Collaboration with School Staff and Parents:

   – Regular team meetings involving parents, teachers, counselors, and special education professionals.

   – Benefits: Holistic support, consistent strategies at home and school.

Empowering ADHD learners involves a combination of school-based strategies, assistive technologies, and collaboration with educators and parents. By understanding the unique needs of students with ADHD and implementing tailored tools and strategies, we can create an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive.

References and relevant links:

https://manikapant18.medium.com/5-free-edtech-tools-to-better-engage-adhd-students-54cbdca8cd44

https://colleamoi.com/blogue/adhd-classroom-tools/?lang=en

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/school-success.html

https://disabilitycreditcanada.com/10-best-assistive-technologies-add-adhd/

by dragana.maksimovic -

Understanding ADHD and its impact on children’s education

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a prevalent neurodevelopmental condition impacting millions of children worldwide. Recognizing its characteristics is essential for educators to provide effective support in the academic journey of students with ADHD. In this comprehensive blog post, we will explore what ADHD is, delve into the challenges it poses for children’s education, and discuss strategies, support systems, and assistive technologies that can make a positive impact.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurological condition characterized by a short attention span, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. As of 2024, around 7.2% of children under the age of 18 globally have been diagnosed with ADHD. Students with ADHD can exhibit both hyperactive and inattentive traits, leading to impatience, difficulty sitting still, disruptions in instruction, easy distraction, forgetfulness, and task avoidance. These traits significantly impact a student’s capacity to learn, develop social skills, and engage in academic environments, potentially resulting in educational disparities and an increased risk of dropping out of high school.

Understanding ADHD in the Classroom:

Children with ADHD encounter obstacles in traditional learning environments. Schools employ strategies like behavioral classroom management and organizational training to address these challenges. Behavioral classroom management focuses on positive reinforcement, while organizational training helps children develop time management and planning skills. Unfortunately, only about one in three children with ADHD receives behavioral classroom management, highlighting the need for increased awareness and implementation.

What Teachers Can Do To Help:

Teachers play a crucial role in helping children with ADHD succeed. Effective communication, clear assignment instructions, and flexibility in learning approaches are key. Providing choices for assignments, minimizing distractions, and incorporating organizational tools contribute to a more supportive classroom environment. Collaborating with parents and involving school counselors or psychologists enhances the overall support structure for children with ADHD. In addition to classroom strategies and support systems, assistive technologies can empower children with ADHD to manage their tasks more effectively.

Understanding ADHD and implementing effective strategies, support systems, and assistive technologies can make a significant difference in the educational experiences of students with ADHD. By creating inclusive classrooms, leveraging technology, modifying learning environments, and collaborating with school staff, educators can provide the necessary support for these students to achieve their full potential. It’s crucial to foster empathy, dispel stigmas, and celebrate every step of progress along the way. Together, parents, teachers, and healthcare providers can work collaboratively to ensure children with ADHD receive the tailored support needed for success in the classroom and beyond.

References and relevant links:

https://manikapant18.medium.com/5-free-edtech-tools-to-better-engage-adhd-students-54cbdca8cd44

https://colleamoi.com/blogue/adhd-classroom-tools/?lang=en

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/school-success.html

https://disabilitycreditcanada.com/10-best-assistive-technologies-add-adhd/

by dragana.maksimovic -

Can Virtual reality help children with ASD?

In my second week of research, I have decided to focus on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as one of the cognitive disabilities I wish to address.

When working with children who have ASD, teachers have to have a very careful approach and special strategies that reflect needs of each child individually. Children with autism often face many challenges adapting to new and unfamiliar environments in their everyday lives. This can cause a lot of anxiety and stress, which leads to loss of confidence and avoidance of social communication and interaction.

One of the topics that sparked my interest the most, when it comes to tools for helping children with autism, was the use of VR for educational purposes. VR can have many benefits in supporting better learning and educational development of children with autism. Many studies have shown that VR can be a useful educational tool for all children, improving education and giving better results than some traditional teaching methods used in education.

Some of the most important benefits for children with autism are:

  • Simulations of social situations
  • Visual and sensory stimulations  
  • Communication support
  • Reducing anxiety
  • Progress tracking and monitoring

References and relevant links:

Sait, M., Alattas, A. and Omar, A. (2019.) Employing Virtual Reality Techniques in environment adaptation for autistic children.

https://builtin.com/edtech/virtual-reality-in-education

https://soeonline.american.edu/blog/benefits-of-virtual-reality-in-education/

https://www.classvr.com/blog/advantages-of-virtual-reality-in-education/

https://floreovr.com

by dragana.maksimovic -

Inclusive educational content for children

Students with disabilities are increasingly spending most or all of their school day in general education classes. Accessible educational materials and technologies are essential to the independence, participation, and progress of these general education students who function in highly varied ways — physical, sensory, and learning (AEM Center).

There are different types of conditions that impact cognitive functions, which include abilities related to learning, memory, problem-solving, attention, and general intellectual functioning. These disabilities can affect a child’s ability to process information, acquire new knowledge, and perform various cognitive tasks, especially in early childhood, which is why it’s important that interactive materials and technologies used for learning are accessible to all children with disabilities.

The idea would be to create content, such as printed or digital book or an interactive platform that is inclusive for children with cognitive disabilities, in a way that encourages engagement through tasks and exercises. While being accessible to those children with cognitive impairments, it should also be alluring to other children and encourage them to interact with the content. The task would be to try and find the middle ground, where the content is exciting enough to keep children interested while also having their possible disabilities in mind.

Ensuring that children with disabilities can participate in a range of activities in early childhood is very important if these children are to benefit from learning environments.

Examples / existing solutions

  • Multisensory learning tools

Multisensory learning involves the use of visual, auditory, and kinesthetic-tactile pathways to enhance memory and learning of written language, which can be very helpful for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), dyslexia, or learning difficulties: https://mein-kleines-baby.de/products/sensory-book-board-erforschen-und-lernen-durch-fuhlen-filzbuch?variant=46486197797202&gclid=CjwKCAiA6byqBhAWEiwAnGCA4PAO3BxCz9ok_h2uLY0IwbjNJTHUfQjN2VnaYXrNJFGHMTfqt2o9IhoCwXUQAvD_BwE

  • AAC devices

For children with communication difficulties, AAC devices, including communication boards and speech-generating devices, can facilitate expression and interaction:

  • Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

Immersive experiences can make learning more engaging and help children understand abstract concepts in a concrete way:

Personal motivation

As someone who has struggled with dyslexia my whole life, I am really passionate about this topic, because I was never treated any differently than my peers in school, even though they didn’t face the same difficulties as me. This obviously affected my learning ability and I was forced to find means of dealing with these issues on my own, which was not an easy task. Thankfully, this didn’t affect my ambitions to continue my education, since my disability was not that severe, but that is not the case for everyone. Young children often struggle a lot to find a way to first understand their disability and then learn how to cope with it.

By creating content that is inclusive for all children, we avoid singling out people with disabilities, while providing them with helpful ways of achieving everything they want and more!

Relevance of design fields

Design fields play a crucial role in creating a positive and effective learning environment. The design of educational spaces encompasses a variety of elements, including architecture, interior design, graphic design, and instructional design.

There is an educational framework called Universal Design for Learning (UDL). The goal of UDL is to remove barriers to learning and provide multiple means of representation, engagement, and expression to meet the varying needs and preferences of students. UDL is based on the premise that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to teaching and that instructional design should be adaptable and accessible to a wide range of learners.

Expected challenges

The term „cognitive disabilities“ is extensive. The research of cognitive disabilities is a multidisciplinary endeavor that involves contributions from various fields, such as psychology, neuroscience, special education, genetics, educational psychology, etc. This might be really challenging and input from a lot of experts as well as people who have experience on the topic will be extremely necessary.

Approach / upcoming research

My next step would be focusing on specific disabilities I would like to address and doing more research on what they represent and how they are traditionally approached in the educational field.

I would also like to learn more about the existing solutions, their pros and cons, and also choose which media channel would be the best to address the problems.

References and relevant links:

https://www.cast.org/impact/universal-design-for-learning-udl

https://aem.cast.org/create/creating-accessible-websites

https://uxdesign.cc/universal-design-for-learning-for-students-with-autism-a7d12c0d35f7

https://www.ldau.org/multisensory-teaching-for-dyslexia#:~:text=They%20need%20specialized%20instruction%20to,engagement%20of%20all%20learning%20modalities.

https://4experience.co/vr-ar-teaching-for-students-with-adhd-and-asd/#:~:text=Visual%20Cues%20Help%20a%20Lot,to%20real%2Dworld%20situations%20difficult.

https://www.speechandlanguagekids.com/teach-your-child-to-use-an-aac-device/