For those diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school can be a difficult place. Hyperactivity, impulsivity, extreme difficulty focusing, and difficulty with organizing are all symptomatic of ADHD, making it a challenge for students effectively receive and remember information.
This begs the question of whether school can actually make ADHD worse, or if it is possible to create an environment that better fosters learning. This article will seek to answer this question by exploring the ways in which school affects an ADHD student, adaptive strategies that have been found to be helpful, and potential curriculum changes that could be put in place to improve outcomes for students with ADHD.
How School Affects the ADHD Student
School life can be more difficult for those who have been diagnosed with ADHD. It is often a place characterized by long hours of sitting, little movement, and tasks that require continuous focus, all of which can make the day feel especially long and challenging.
The structure of a traditional classroom may also limit the ability of the student to move or take breaks, which can lead to further fatigue and distraction. Finally, the pace of instruction may be too fast, leaving the student struggling to catch up. All of these factors can lead to frustration and can even result in behavioral problems, which can further impair the student’s ability to learn.
Adaptive Strategies for the ADHD Student
While it can feel like an uphill battle for the ADHD student, there are strategies that have been found to be helpful. First, it is important to create a “safe space” of sorts in the classroom.
This means providing a space where the student can take breaks, move, or even do some light exercises. Additionally, the pace of instruction should be adjusted for those students who need it. By providing additional time, students with ADHD can more successfully work their way through problems without feeling overwhelmed.
Finally, it is essential to have a structure in place for tracking and monitoring the student’s progress. By providing regular feedback and opportunities to track progress, the student can take ownership of his or her learning and can gain a greater sense of self-confidence.
Curriculum Changes to Improve Outcomes
In addition to adaptive strategies, it is also important to consider curriculum changes that could help to improve outcomes for the ADHD student. Education that heavily emphasizes self-regulation techniques has been found to be particularly effective. By teaching mindfulness techniques, the student can better manage their emotions and control impulses, thus improving their ability to stay on task.
Additionally, the use of digital games and interactive technology can help to keep the student engaged and challenged. Finally, creativity in the classroom should also be encouraged.
By encouraging creative expression, the student may gain greater insight into their own talents and abilities, which can further cultivate a healthy sense of self-worth and positively impact learning outcomes.
Conclusion
The challenges of school life can be especially difficult for an ADHD student. It is therefore essential to be aware of the ways in which school affects them and to strive to create an environment that fosters a positive and productive learning experience. This begins with utilizing adaptive strategies that allow the student to take breaks, monitor progress, and feel in control of the learning process.
Additionally, by introducing changes in curriculum, such as teaching self-regulation techniques and encouraging creativity, the student can gain greater insight into their own abilities and gain the confidence needed for a successful school experience.