Cognitive Science
Cognitive Science is the study of how people think, perceive, learn, and remember.
How Executive Function Matters to Reading
Executive function plays a significant role in reading by supporting various cognitive processes essential for decoding and comprehension. Here are some key ways executive function relates to reading:
- Working Memory: This allows readers to hold and manipulate information while reading. For example, keeping track of characters and plot details in a story requires strong working memory
- Inhibitory Control: This helps readers focus on the text and ignore distractions. It also allows them to suppress irrelevant information and stay on task
- Cognitive Flexibility: This enables readers to switch between different aspects of reading, such as decoding words and understanding their meanings. It also helps in interpreting words with multiple meanings based on context
- Planning and Organization: These skills are important for understanding the structure of a text and making sense of complex information. They help readers set goals, such as summarizing a paragraph or predicting what will happen next
- Self-Monitoring: This involves checking one's own understanding while reading. Readers use self-monitoring to recognize when they don't understand something and to employ strategies to improve comprehension
By supporting these cognitive processes, executive function helps readers become more proficient and effective in their reading skills.