Diverse Thinking Different Learning

Ep. 225: Moving Beyond Accommodations and Modifications to Cognitive Change for Academic Gains with Shelley Woon

Feb 18, 2025
In this discussion, Shelley Woon, a seasoned educator and school leader, delves into innovative methods for enhancing learning among students with dyslexia and ADHD. She advocates for moving past mere accommodations, emphasizing how cognitive training rooted in neuroplasticity can genuinely transform academic outcomes. Shelley highlights the Arrowsmith approach, which focuses on reinforcing cognitive skills through targeted exercises. She also addresses skepticism around cognitive interventions, offering research-backed insights and success stories that showcase real improvements in students' abilities.
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INSIGHT

Limitations of Accommodations Alone

  • Solely relying on accommodations in education risks limiting students' life and career opportunities.
  • True success arises from addressing cognitive challenges at their neurological root.
INSIGHT

Personalized Neuroplasticity Training

  • Every student's cognitive profile is unique, even with similar learning difficulties like dyslexia.
  • Targeted neuroplastic exercises can strengthen specific cognitive weaknesses to improve skills in reading and writing.
INSIGHT

Understanding Neuroplasticity in Learning

  • Neuroplasticity means the brain can be rewired and strengthened through sustained, progressively challenging tasks.
  • Mastering adaptive exercises develops neural pathways supporting improved learning.
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