Executive Functioning Challenges

Executive functioning skills are cognitive processes that enable individuals to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, and juggle multiple tasks effectively. These skills are crucial for goal-oriented behaviour, problem-solving, and self-regulation. Those who have impairments in these processes can experience difficulties with organising, prioritising, managing time, and controlling impulses. Executive functioning challenges can impact daily life and performance whilst on placement.

What executive functioning challenges can look like on placement

The student may come across as:

  • Lazy

  • Disorganised

  • Messy

  • Often late

  • Forgetful

Potential impact on learning and engagement

Neurodivergent students may face challenges with:

  • Completing tasks efficiently

  • Attending meetings on time

  • Completing paperwork

  • Prioritising or managing workload effectively

  • Meeting deadlines

  • Navigating complex challenges and tasks

Examples of potential Reasonable Adjustments

  • Support the neurodivergent student with creating timetables and to-do lists

  • Provide extra office time to complete tasks

  • Support the student in understanding and prioritising the importance of workload

  • Provide shorter but flexible deadlines