Work

Executive functions and school achievement: The mediating role of learning‐related behaviour in primary school children

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Executive functions (EFs) are critical in school and closely linked to academic achievement and learning-related behaviours (LRBs). LRBs encompass the ability to adapt to school demands, including concentration, adherence to rules, and autonomy. AIMS: This correlational study aimed to examine the mediating role of LRB in the association between EF and academic achievement in the first year of primary school. SAMPLE AND METHOD: Ninety-five first graders underwent a performance-based EF assessment, involving tasks related to working memory and inhibition. Concurrently, they completed literacy and math tasks, while their teacher provided reports on their LRBs. RESULTS: The results indicate that depending on the specific EF component or learning domain considered, diverse patterns emerge. Nevertheless, the findings consistently show that EFs are directly and indirectly associated with learning outcomes, with the mediating influence of LRBs. CONCLUSIONS: These results emphasize the importance of supporting EF development into early education curricula.

Source: British Journal of Educational Psychology

DOI: 10.1111/bjep.70053

Authors: Carlotta Rivella, Paola Viterbori

Institution: University of Genoa

Language: English

Topic: Developmental and Educational Neuropsychology

Subfield: Neuropsychology and Physiological Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,760