“Executive functions” is a term used to describe a broad set of cognitive skills that, when working properly, allow students to manage impulses, work in a deliberate and thoughtful manner, and organize their time and materials. When development of these skills is delayed, as is often the case in those with learning disabilities, ADHD, or emotional disorders, academic performance suffers.
When working with students who have special educational needs, it is imperative that professionals also consider whether or not the student is displaying age-appropriate executive skills; additional assessment and intervention may be necessary. This workshop will begin by defining the term “executive functioning” using clear, easy to understand terms, and then we will investigate several of the most common tools used to assess the executive functions including semi-structured interviews, standardized symptom inventories (e.g., Conners 3, BREIF) and formal psychometric tests (e.g., the Delis Kaplan Executive Function System).