We’ve put together this infographic that compares the United States’ education spend and performance versus eleven countries. The U.S. is the clear leader in total annual spending, but ranks 9th in Science performance and 10th in Math.
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| scream and shout (Photo credit: mdanys) |
Attention problems (behavior problems including inattention, disorganization, impulsivity, and hyperactivity) are widely thought to reflect deficits in executive functions (EFs). However, it is unclear whether attention problems differentially relate to distinct EFs and how developmental stability and change predict levels of EFs in late adolescence. We investigated, in an unselected sample, how teacher-rated attention problems from ages 7 to 14 years related to three correlated but separable EFs, measured as latent variables at age 17. Attention problems at all ages significantly predicted later levels of response inhibition and working memory updating, and to some extent set shifting; the relation to inhibiting was stronger than the relations to the other EFs or IQ. Growth models indicated that attention problems were quite stable in this age range, and it was the initial levels of problems, rather than their changes across time, that predicted later EFs. These results support the hypothesis that attention problems primarily reflect difficulties with response inhibition.
For high quality 21st century school leaders, the focus should be on using research-based practices to assist learning, thinking, and applying for teachers and students. If you are a school leader or an instructional coach, Chris Atkinson recommends Doug Reeve’s book: Transforming Professional Development Into Student Results. where he presents his “Leadership and Learning Matrix”. What have you done to improve your learning, teaching, and understanding? Have you been a lifelong learner?
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