The tone of voice used by teachers can significantly affect students with ADHD. Here’s how different aspects of tone can impact these students: 1. Clarity and Directness • Positive Impact: A clear and direct tone helps students with ADHD understand instructions better, reducing confusion and helping them stay focused. • Negative Impact: An unclear or… Continue reading How Tone of Voice Influences Students with ADHD: A Guide for Teachers
Author: Fiona
Hi, I'm Fiona Kearnan. I am a passionate educator and have a particular interest in helping students with ADHD, and their teachers. I have been researching the impacts of ADHD on student behaviour and learning for over 30 years. I studied primary teaching at The University of Melbourne, obtained special education qualifications at Deakin University, and completed my Master of Education at Monash University.
I have taught in primary, secondary and special education settings. I held the role of Head of Teaching and Learning in a P-12 College in Melbourne prior to becoming one of Australia's first Arrowsmith Program teachers.
My passion, understanding and experience of ADHD enable me to empower teachers to 'flick the switch' and assist students with this neurological condition to reach their potential.
I am the author of 'Flicking the Switch: Reaching and Teaching Students with ADHD' on Amazon, and also provide professional development for teachers, helping them to better understand their ADHD students and to equip them to support their students with ADHD to thrive at school and reach their potential.
I am an avid reader and a professional photographer. I enjoy cooking and am a keen traveler. My husband, Matthew, and I have two adult children and we reside in Melbourne, Australia. You can follow me on Facebook or Instagram.
Why ADHD learners find group work so difficult.
ADHD can present challenges for individuals, in various aspects of their academic and social lives. When it comes to group work, ADHD students may face specific difficulties that can impact their ability to participate effectively. Some reasons for their struggles include: Difficulty with Focus and Attention: ADHD is characterized by difficulties in maintaining attention and… Continue reading Why ADHD learners find group work so difficult.
The Power of the Tick
As educators, one of our fundamental goals is to nurture a positive and encouraging learning environment that fosters student motivation and success. While traditional methods of assessment and feedback play crucial roles in student development, there are innovative approaches that can further boost engagement and productivity. His blog post explores the use of ticks, a… Continue reading The Power of the Tick
The Impact of Closing Trade Schools in the 1990s and its Effect on Students with ADHD.
In the early 1990s, Australia underwent a significant shift in its education system with the closure of numerous trade schools across the country. This move was made with the intention of promoting a stronger focus on traditional secondary education and university pathways. While this decision had its merits, it inadvertently had negative repercussions on students… Continue reading The Impact of Closing Trade Schools in the 1990s and its Effect on Students with ADHD.
Nurturing Self-Esteem in Secondary Education: The Benefits of Streaming English and Mathematics Classes.
In the ever-evolving world of education, there’s a growing recognition of the impact that a student’s self-esteem can have on their learning journey. A promising avenue to boost self-esteem lies in streaming classes, particularly in subjects like English and mathematics. This approach can provide numerous advantages for both students and educators in secondary education, with… Continue reading Nurturing Self-Esteem in Secondary Education: The Benefits of Streaming English and Mathematics Classes.
Rethinking Classroom Discipline: Moving Beyond Public Shaming
Creating a positive and conducive learning environment is essential for every classroom. While teachers face challenges in managing student behavior, it is crucial to adopt discipline strategies that foster growth, understanding, and respect. One common but problematic practice that has been used for years involves writing the names of naughty kids on the board as… Continue reading Rethinking Classroom Discipline: Moving Beyond Public Shaming
Helping your ADHD Child Succeed at School
It is painful to watch your child begin to unravel when they start their education journey. Sadly, students with ADHD find school a huge challenge. Because of the way their brains are wired, school expectations can be difficult for them to achieve. Additionally, the school setting, navigating friendships and concentrating on the lessons being taught,… Continue reading Helping your ADHD Child Succeed at School
Unlocking Chaos: The Dilemma of Locker Access and Student Disorganization
In every school, lockers serve as a convenient storage space for students to keep their belongings during the school day. However, the policy surrounding locker access can have unintended consequences on student organization and punctuality. Many schools have implemented a practice where teachers allow students to return to their lockers to retrieve forgotten items during… Continue reading Unlocking Chaos: The Dilemma of Locker Access and Student Disorganization
My Journey
I turned 50 early last year and, boy, was it an interesting year! At my birthday dinner with my girlfriends, one of them said that she thought something significant was going to happen in my 50th year. She turned out to be right, and, I’d say many significant things happened. 😊 The last point was… Continue reading My Journey
Positive Reinforcement is NOT Bribery.
Over the years I have heard many people describe positive reinforcement as ‘bribery’. This is because they have an inaccurate understanding of the two concepts. There is a significant difference! Positive reinforcement involves rewarding students when they do well, specifically for demonstrating good behaviour and for accomplishments. It provides motivation for children to engage in… Continue reading Positive Reinforcement is NOT Bribery.