Working Memory is critical to academic success – What can we do to improve learning?
You are already no doubt aware of the impact poor working memory has on performance at school. What we would like to offer is an opportunity to start 2012 with access to more information about working memory and some practical strategies and programs to help you address working memory deficits in the classroom.
What is working memory and why is it important for children?
Working memory is the ability to keep information in your mind for a short time, focus on a task, and remember what to do next.
Evidence shows that working memory is critical for academic success and has implications for:
- focusing appropriately
- shutting out distractions
- complex thinking
There are two ways to manage working memory deficits in the classroom. You can change the learning environment with good classroom strategies, and you can change the student with targeted working memory training.
Dr Susan Gathercole is known around the world as a leading authority in working memory and she recently spoke to us here in Australia to explain working memory and why it’s important, especially for children. Watch a 3 minute video interview with Dr Gathercole.
About Cogmed
Cogmed is an evidence based program designed to help students sustainably improve attention by training their working memory.
Already implemented in many schools around the world, Cogmed is a computer based program that is run in 25 sessions over a 5-6 week period, each session lasting 30-45 minutes.
Students complete this program of training under the supervision of an accredited Cogmed coach which greatly improves compliance rates and maximises the benefits of the training. Training can be completed at home via a private practice coach or at school as part of a school site licence package. Staff at the school are trained and qualified by Cogmed to lead and supervise implementation in school. The professional development of staff is included in the package.
Who are the students who need Cogmed training?
We see deficits in around 15% of the school population.
The quickest way to recognise a student who is held back academically by poor working memory is to use the Working Memory Checklist.
Join us for a complimentary webinar
Pearson is hosting a webinar being presented by the Cogmed Manager, Mimma Mason. This webinar will seek to present an overview of working memory, what it is, how it affects learning and what you can do in the school environment to manage children and adolescents with working memory deficits.
This is also an opportunity to learn more about Cogmed Working Memory Training and hear about other schools who have implemented this program with great success.
Webinar Details
Date: Thursday 16th February, 2012
Time: 3.45pm – 4.45pm AEDT
Duration: 45 minutes plus questions
