“The executive functions are a set of processes that all have to do with managing oneself and one’s resources in order to achieve a goal. It is an umbrella term for the neurologically-based skills involving mental control and self-regulation.” (Cooper-Khan, Dietzel, 2008)
Some important executive functions are:
Organization- The ability to impose order on work, materials, and storage spaces.
Planning & Time Management- The ability to manage current and future-oriented tasks.
Initiation- The ability to get started on a task.
Attention- The ability to stop one’s behavior at the appropriate time.
Emotional Regulation- The ability to modulate emotional responses by bringing rational thought to bear on feelings.
How can Academic Coaching strengthen executive functions?
At State Street Education, our Academic Coaching program is centered around helping students become more effective, productive, and independent. This will come through improving the executive function skills. We want to help students set and achieve their academic goals.
Whereas academic tutors focus on content, our academic coaches focus on process. Our work revolves around the process necessary to achieve academic goals. We support students to develop the systems, habits, structure, accountability, and skills that they need in order to become a more successful student. This can have an impact on both a student’s academic life and areas and activities outside of school too. Our coaches will work with students to understand their needs, prioritize the skills they need, and then foster the growth necessary.
When a student works with the right academic coach, it can make a world of difference and help create change in a powerful way. To learn more about academic coaching, email Scott@statestreeteducation.com.