In Multiple Pathways to the Student Brain, Zadina discusses different practices that have been scientifically shown to improve attention. These practices include music training, meditation, yoga, and sports.
In the Bay Area, in CA (which is where I grew up) there are a number of schools that have implemented instruction in mindfulness in recent years. Here's a summary of research if anyone is interested: Mindfulness in Schools. When I first heard about this practice I thought it was interesting, but I hadn't thought much about it until I read Zadina's chapter on attention. In the linked article, students who participated in mindfulness training showed improvements in behavior and ability to pay attention.
I decided to try out a few of Zadina's suggested techniques for focused attention and mindfulness (full explanations on p. 118). To practice focused attention, students looked at a small blue chair as they sat at their desks, and their goal was to not think of any thoughts. When they think of something, their goal is to notice that they thought of it, and then bring their attention back to the chair. To practice mindfulness, we practiced 30 seconds of silence, and students were directed to pay attention to their senses. After each activity students discussed their experience with a shoulder partner, then shared out to the group. Discussion questions included: What did you think about? Did your mind wander? Was it easy or hard?
Although some students said it was easy, I could tell it was hard! Zadina suggests starting in increments of 10 seconds, and gradually increasing the time. I will definitely keep using these practices in the classroom. There's always a tension of not having enough time in the day, but since this is scientifically proven to increase attention, I'd say it falls into the category of... It takes time to make time!
Yes, I think getting students to stop and focus on their own attention would greatly benefit students. Have you continued working with them on their attention?
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