Brief Summary
This talk addresses the common misconception that executive function can be broadly improved through brain training apps or games. It argues that executive function is highly context-dependent and that real improvement requires understanding and leveraging the influence of context. The speaker uses examples from developmental psychology, including the "dimensional change card sort" and the marshmallow test, to illustrate how external factors like peer influence and personal motivation significantly impact executive function. The key takeaway is that to improve executive function in a meaningful way, one should focus on modifying the context to make goals more relevant and employ specific strategies tailored to the situation.
- Executive function is the ability to consciously control thoughts, emotions, and actions to achieve goals.
- Improving executive function requires understanding how it's influenced by context, not just through brain training.
- Contextual factors, such as peer influence and personal motivation, significantly impact executive function.
- Strategies to improve executive function should be tailored to specific situations and goals.
Introduction to Executive Function
The speaker begins by sharing her recent experience of learning to drive as an adult, highlighting the intense mental effort and conscious decision-making involved. As a cognitive scientist, she explains that this effort is due to the heavy use of executive function, which is the ability to consciously control thoughts, emotions, and actions to achieve goals. Executive function is essential for breaking habits, inhibiting impulses, and planning ahead. Lapses in executive function can lead to everyday errors like absentmindedness.
The Misconception of Improving Executive Function
Executive function is a predictor of various positive outcomes, including social skills, academic achievement, and financial stability. However, the speaker argues against the popular notion that executive function can be improved through generic brain-training apps or games. These methods exercise executive function in a narrow, artificial way, failing to translate to real-world scenarios. True improvement requires understanding how executive function is influenced by context.
The Dimensional Change Card Sort Task
The "dimensional change card sort" task is used to measure executive function in young children. Children are asked to sort cards by one attribute (e.g., shape) and then switch to sorting by another attribute (e.g., color). Young children often struggle with this task, demonstrating difficulty in switching from the established habit. The speaker emphasizes that while training can improve performance on this specific task, it doesn't necessarily enhance executive function in broader, real-world contexts. Real-world success depends on motivation, peer influence, and the strategies employed.
The Marshmallow Test and Contextual Influence
The speaker discusses her research using a modified version of the classic marshmallow test, which measures delay of gratification. Children were told they were part of a group that either waited or did not wait for a second marshmallow. The results showed that children who believed their group waited were more likely to wait themselves, indicating the influence of peer context. Further research revealed that these children also preferred peers who valued waiting, suggesting that group behavior shapes individual values and strategies.
Applying Context to Improve Executive Function
To improve executive function, the speaker advises focusing on the context. For example, when learning Spanish, surround yourself with motivated peers. To help a child with math homework, teach specific strategies like eliminating distractions and planning rewards. While executive function is complex and influenced by many factors, understanding and leveraging context is crucial. The speaker concludes by quoting the ancient Greek saying "Know thyself," emphasizing the importance of understanding how context shapes behavior to facilitate positive change.
