Where Learning Happens: Leveraging Working Memory and Attention in the Classroom

Design principles to manage working memory.

Master the art of attention in this book, designed to equip educators with practical student engagement strategies to leverage attention-related concepts for student success. Author Julia A. Simms delves into how teachers can harness the power of focus to create classrooms that empower students to achieve their personal and academic goals.

With many distractions competing for students’ attention, student engagement and knowledge retention are more important than ever. Where Learning Happens explores the types of attention—sustained, selective, divided, and effective—in depth and provides research-suggested strategies to maximise student attention and engagement. By understanding cognitive load theory, information-processing principles, and other key concepts, teachers can leverage attention-related strategies to help students achieve their academic goals.

K–12 educators can use this book to:

• Understand how to create a classroom atmosphere conducive to attention
• Discover the role of technology and how students can interact productively without distraction
• Learn the evolution of attention-related research and its practical applications
• Bolster students’ working memory with cognitive load theory, information-processing principles, and instructional design
• Apply cognitive attention training, state training, and other attention strategies
• Leverage an attention-centred instructional approach to help students achieve goals

Table of Contents

Introduction

Chapter 1: Focusing on Attention Research

Chapter 2: Dealing With Distraction

Chapter 3: Fostering an Atmosphere of Attention

Chapter 4: Managing Working Memory

Chapter 5: Caring About Context

Epilogue

References and Resources

Index

"Julia A. Simms has masterfully synthesized decades of research on attention, distraction, and the brain into a compelling and practical guide for educators. Where Learning Happens: Leveraging Working Memory and Attention in the Classroom is a must-read for K–12 teachers, offering invaluable strategies that blend the art and science of teaching. Each chapter is packed with actionable insights that will enhance student learning and help educators create an atmosphere of focused attention. This book is not just relevant; it’s essential for anyone dedicated to the craft of teaching and the pursuit of learning."
- Bret Heller, superintendent, School Town of Munster, Indiana

"Where Learning Happens is a must-read for teachers seeking to boost and sustain student attention in the classroom. Julia A. Simms distills the latest relevant effectiveness research on how attention and working memory function, what disrupts them, and offers actionable strategies teachers can implement to help students strengthen their focus and improve memory."
- Oliver Grenham, education expert; former chief education officer, Westminster Public Schools, Colorado

"Where Learning Happens is a compelling and timely resource for educators in all settings, from early childhood to higher education. The book synthesizes current research to explain how different brain functions work together to support optimal learning. In a time when educators are grappling with how to capture and sustain students’ attention, Julia A. Simms offers practical strategies to help students develop self-agency and better manage their own learning—especially in the face of technology-related distractions. Whether teaching in traditional classrooms or digital environments, educators will find this book’s insights and actional concepts invaluable for creating conditions that truly enhance student learning."
- Beth Nelson, education expert

"A must-read for educators striving to create dynamic learning environments, this book provides practical, research-backed strategies to help students manage and sustain their attention. By empowering students with tools to take ownership of their focus, the author equips educators to cultivate an environment where attention thrives. The convergence of the science of learning with actionable strategies provides both the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ for educators aiming to enhance their practice and support students in becoming more attentive and engaged learners."
- Hawar Khalandi, director of college and career readiness, Platte County School District, Missouri

"Where Learning Happens by Julia A. Simms is essential for educators today. Julia’s focus on cultivating a culture of attention and managing distractions is incredibly timely given our tech-driven, post-pandemic classrooms. Her innovative approach combines strategies for working memory and long-term retention with insights and suggestions based on attention research, making this book truly unique. As a principal, I’m eager to implement these ideas to support my teachers and enhance student success. This book is timely, relevant, and indispensable for anyone looking to enhance their teaching practice."
- Nancy Mills, principal, Harris Park Elementary School, Colorado

"Where Learning Happens is a must-read for educators who want to deepen their understanding of how attention and working memory impact learning. The book does a wonderful job of explaining the science behind attention but also offers practical strategies for the classroom. The author empowers teachers to create learning environments where students can truly focus, engage, and succeed. This is a great resource for anyone looking to optimize student achievement through cognitive science."
- Adrienne Turner, English language arts coordinator, Deer Creek Schools, Oklahoma