Wait... That Was Due Today?! The Working Memory Struggle Is Real
The Dilemma... Ever had one of those nights where you're juggling assignments, and your brain feels like it's about to explode? That's exactly what happened to this student. It's 9:30 PM, they've just finished class, and they have an assignment due at 11 PM. But instead of buckling down, they decide to work on a lab report that isn't due until the next day.
Now, you might be thinking, "What?! That makes no sense!" But here's the thing: this student is battling a common enemy - working memory overload.
The Bigger Picture At first glance, this situation might seem like a simple case of poor time management or disorganization. However, when we take a closer look through the lens of Executive Function, we can see that the root issue lies in working memory. The student was so focused on retaining information from the lab that they lost track of the more urgent deadline.
Someone not trained in executive functions might assume the solution is just better planning. But as a Certified Executive Function Strategist, you recognize that working memory challenges require deeper intervention. Understanding how students process and retain information in the moment allows us to tailor strategies that address the real underlying issue.
A Casual Coaching Chat:
So, how can we help students navigate these mental mazes? Instead of jumping to conclusions ("They're just procrastinating!"), let's take a more relaxed approach and ask some key questions:
"Hey, so what did you do on your way back from class? Were you walking or did you get a ride?"
"Did you walk with anyone? Did you chat about the lab at all?"
"How long did it take you to get back to your dorm?"
By having this casual conversation, we can start to understand the student's thought process and identify the root of the problem. In this case, it's clear that the student's walk back to the dorm was a crucial moment where valuable information was slipping away.
Simple Solutions for "In-the-Moment" Capture:
Once we've identified the issue, we can brainstorm some easy solutions together:
"Do you think it would help to record your conversation with your lab partner? You could use your phone.”
"If you're walking alone, maybe you could quickly jot down some notes about the lab while it's still fresh in your mind."
These simple strategies can be game-changers for students with working memory challenges. By capturing information in the moment, they can free up mental space and tackle their assignments with more confidence.
