Cognitive Science 301

Applied Cognitive Science and Education
Fall 2006

Assessment of Attention

• Behavioral observations and developmental history (parents and teachers)
• Rate yourself and have someone who knows you (good friend or parent) using the Attention Control Inventory in Figure 2-4,  pages 12 - 14 of the Inventory.  Save these results for your final report.
• Computerized tests (TOVA, Test of Variable Attention) can measure vigilance, impulsivity, deterioration of attention over time (errors of omission or commission)
• Cautions about interpretation of attention assessments
  • every assessment has problems and limitations
  • behavioral observations over time, especially in school are often very effective at pointing out problems (that need to be investigated further)
  • every assessment depends on the person administering the assessment and the validity of the assessment as a tool for measuring attention

Management of Attention Deficits

• Demystification is the most important tool
• Metacognition is essential!
• See techniques, strategies, etc. for management based on three case studies.