Today’s postsecondary student body is more diverse than ever, and educators are eager to learn how to support all students on their path to independence and success. How do we support a wide range of learners? Across a wide array of disciplines? Who possess varied background knowledge?

This presentation posits that executive function (EF), and the related concept of cognitive load, are crucial for learning—regardless of subject matter or current competence. Further, adaptation of EF-friendly classrooms and curriculum fosters the development of expert learner behaviors in students of all ages.

Fundamental principles of EF will be outlined, followed by a demonstration of how our limited cognitive working space is filled. Approaches for optimizing cognitive load and scaffolding executive function—such as implementing metacognitive techniques like cognitive wrappers—will be introduced.

Attendees will walk away with:
• A clearer understanding of what executive function is (and isn’t)
• The critical role executive function and cognitive load contribute to learning
• Strategies that can be adopted and implemented by faculty AND students for supporting executive function (and thus improving student achievement!)

Rick Bryck, PhD

Dr. Bryck’s work centers on the study of executive function (EF), including understanding disparities in EF, and testing the efficacy of interventions, programs, and strategies aimed at enhancing EF. He has served as an investigator on grants exploring: a cognitive training program for low-income children, the well-being and academic effects of resilience training for neurodivergent college students, and the effects of metacognitive and EF scaffolds in math problem solving. He also serves as the campus lead on a National Science Foundation project providing STEM mentoring for students with disabilities. He also regularly teaches in Landmark College’s Learning Differences and Neurodiversity online certificate program for education professionals, including courses on student engagement, executive function, and classroom technologies for diverse learners.

Sponsored by Vassar’s Office for Accessibility and Educational Opportunity.