Eddie's Case

            As much as we don’t like to classify children into categories I think Eddie would fall under the ADHD category experiencing “difficultly controlling his attention and impulses, difficulty sitting for long periods of time, and difficulty attending to tasks.” (Gifted and Challenging). Most doctors and parents are quick to medicate their children when it comes to ADHD and for some this is a beneficial option, but there are also a lot of other techniques for those who do not want to medicate their children that can promote learning in students experiencing ADHD-like tendencies. 

             Although it may sound contradictory (because consistency in terms of daily routines and structure are beneficial for students with ADHD) a key component with students such as Eddie is flexibility. A big thing with students such as Eddie is this need of constant stimulation, walking around, or getting up moving. Instead of looking at this as a deficit, there are ways in which you can modify the classroom so that each child’s needs can be met and incorporated into the classroom.  - For example, Eddie could be the teachers designated helper who helps pass out papers or materials used. This will allow him the extra “moving up and around time” and gives him a purpose to be up and moving around. With Eddie feeling as if he has purpose, or knowing at any time he may have to pass out papers or collect materials, Eddie will (hopefully) pay attention more in order to “do his job”.

              Another accommodation that could be made for Eddie stems from his need of a constant reminder to stay focused. Class activities and lessons can be modified to this with more engaging and hands on activities. Students similar to Eddie, like Marcus, were found to have performed better and found a deeper understanding of tasks when they were hands on. Another method of keeping Eddie on task while he’s doing these activities could deal with charts that help keep track of the assignments and work he has to complete. Another thing to keep in mind with students similar to Eddie is also accommodating discipline such as taking away recess, as this is a time extremely beneficial for students especially students with ADHD.  

              Overall keeping the classroom a predictable but stimulating environment for students will not only promote better learning and accommodation for Eddie, but also will enrich the other students learning as well.