Managing Executive Functioning - The Science

According to the article “Adapting to ADHD through Improvisation,” neuroimaging research suggests that students with ADHD may experience challenges related to how attention is distributed, rather than a lack of attention itself. Several studies indicate that these students can have increased mind-wandering due to differences in how certain brain networks function.

One network often discussed in this research is the default mode network (DMN). The DMN connects areas of the frontal lobe involved in self-reflection and internal thought. When this network remains highly active during tasks that require external focus, attention can be pulled toward internal thoughts instead of the task at hand. In students with ADHD, this overactivity can make it difficult to sustain progress on structured tasks, not because of a lack of effort, but because attention is being directed toward non-productive or unrelated mental processes.

At the same time, these patterns of thinking are closely linked to strengths. The same tendency toward non-linear, associative thinking is often what allows neurodivergent students to think creatively and approach problems from unexpected angles. Research and commentary in this area suggest that this “out-of-the-box” thinking makes improvisation come more naturally to many neurodivergent learners.

Improvisation involves thinking quickly, problem-solving in real time, and finding efficient pathways to success when situations are complex or overstimulating. For students who possess this skill, improvisation can be a powerful tool for navigating challenges that feel overwhelming or rigid. Throughout history, these abilities have contributed to significant artistic and innovative achievements. More recent research has also linked strong improvisational skills with success in creating new ideas and projects, particularly in creative fields and entrepreneurial work.

When educators understand this balance — both the challenges and the strengths — they can design learning environments that support attention while also valuing creativity, rather than viewing one as a barrier to the other.