A resource developed by Karen Janowski, Assistive Technology Consultant, EdTech Solutions

karen.janowski@gmail.com, @KarenJan

This resource page includes a number of free and low-cost tools to manage and/or develop executive function skills. It is based on the work of Dawson and Guare who propose a two-pronged approach to working with students with EF issues. First, consider the environment, what can be changed externally to support the students. Second, provide explicit instruction. These tools may help as part of an intervention regimen. Scroll down to access all the categories and tools. Thank you for visiting.

Low Tech and Readily Available Options:

Start with what is readily available. Use the devices' Calendar and Reminders apps and features. Use low-tech tools such as Sticky Notes and colored highlighters. Use Sticky Notes on computers (Stickies on the Mac) and definitely explore Google Keep - syncs across all devices and has excellent features for many different skills. Teach these tools - students do not typically know about or use them effectively. Explicit instruction is key but also be willing to learn from your students. They can become the experts.

Guide to Google Keep to check out.

Self-Regulation

Calm - free for iOS devices; offers in-app purchases, mindfulness, relaxation strategies

Breethe -  iOS or Android, free and offers in-app purchases, mindfulness, relaxation strategies

Self-Help for Anxiety Management - Free iOS or Android app developed by a team of psychologists, computers scientists and student users with a range of self-help tools to manage anxiety. 

Mindshift CBT - Anxiety Canada -  "MindShift uses scientifically proven strategies based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help you learn to relax and be mindful, develop more effective ways of thinking, and use active steps to take charge of your anxiety." (from the website, free iOS or Android app)  

Mood Meter - Increase self-awareness, promote self-regulation, build emotion vocabulary including nuance.

Headspace - mindful meditation, free trial and annual fee

Self-Control - blocks distracting websites, full customizability

Organization and Time Management

Task Analysis and Time Estimation Work Sheet - The purpose of the Task Analysis Work Sheet is to raise student's awareness of the multiple steps that may be involved in a single task and to develop their perception of how much time it takes to complete that task.    (From LDOnline)

Master Time Management

Assignment Calculator  - A time management tool for use with writing assignments

Task Coach -Free download to track to do lists. Also offers an iOS app for $.99

Task Timer -Chrome app for time management

Stay Focused - Chrome extension that limits the amount of time you spend on time wasting websites. Highly configurable.

Rescue Time - Web-based time tracking software to promote focus and productivity. Offers graphs and visual support. The Lite version is free.

Cold Turkey - Love the name. Right now it is Windows only but they say they are adding Mac capabilities. Set timers, improve focus and productivity. Pro version offers additional features (one time $19 fee).

Pomodoro Technique - A Time Management method to help manage distractions and increase productivity. Use a time to work for focused periods with short breaks.

Focus Booster - An online tool based on the Pomodoro Technique (free and premium versions)

Study Time app - Sustain focus and manage distractions. Adds table and graph view to determine how time is spent. $1.99, iOS app based on the Pomodoro Technique

Pomodone - Free (with premium versions) online tool based on the Pomodoro Technique. Connect to your current Productivity tool (Todoist, Trello, Evernote, Wanderlist). Chrome extension available.

Thinking Time Tracker Chrome Extension - based on the work of Sarah Ward and her "Get Ready, Do, Done" strategy.

Dayboard - Chrome extension to help you manage your tasks and distractions. Replace your new tab page with a daily to do list to focus on your most important tasks each day.

TrackClass - Helps you organize school work. From reminders to notes to assignments and grades, you'll be on top of your studies! (Free resource)

Google Keep - Free collaborative tool with many features. Syncs across all your devices.

My Homework - Online student planner (free and premium versions)

Remind - Awesome free tool to communicate with your students about homework, assignments, feedback, etc.

Study Minder Homework System -Windows based, includes 30 day free trial. $19.99

Todoist - Full featured Task Manager. Multiple platforms

Todo.ly -Easy to use free online to-do list and Task Manager

Live Binder - Organize online tools and docs in one place by subject

COACH.ME - Unique goal building and habit tracking iOS app. Free or use the coaches.

Customize your iGoogle Home Page with productivity apps

Study Skills

High School Study Skills -A sequential approach to improving Study Skills for High School students.

Check out the Assignment Calculator

Before you Study, Ask for Help Published by The Wall Street Journal, August 15, 2017

The Most Powerful Way to Remember More - Must see video to share with students! Based upon the concept of Spaced Repetition or Distributed Learning. Cramming does not work!

Another must see video if you need more convincing about Spaced Repetition. 

StudyBlue App - Free flashcard app, includes text, audio and graphics. Awesome!

Quizlet Mobile Apps - Free flashcard app, can download any Quizlet card set.

New smart study features. Builds strategic competence.

Learn more here.

Brainscape App- Study more efficiently. This free app is based upon cognitive science

Notes about Highlighting 

Highlighting is Ineffective Let's Change That - Edutopia

The Surprising Truth about Highlighting 

Effects of Learner-Generated Highlighting and Instructor-Provided Highlighting on Learning from Text: A Meta-Analysis