WORKING memory is not quite short-term memory, which deals more with automatic, everyday responses that require little thought, it’s the ability to hold a thought while the brain processes a more complex task.

Unlike short-term memory, working memory relies heavily on long-term memory retrieval. This subtle difference is the result of the latest research in human cognitive functions explaining why working-memory deficits have emerged as a major contributor to learning difficulties.

Working-memory difficulties affect our ability to think and learn. If you are unable to hold a thought for long enough to attend to the task, then ultimately you cannot complete it.

This is why children with poor working memory struggle to finish their school work. Many face this debilitating reality every day.

They may appear disorganised, lazy, dreamy, procrastinating. Many of these traits mirror a child with ADHD, so much so that researchers are now questioning if there is a difference between the two.

Until fairly recently, poor working memory was seen as unchangeable. You were born with it. However, studies show that working memory capacity can either be increased or made to work more efficiently – there is still some debate as to which one it is. Nonetheless, the evidence is unequivocal that learning is dependent on working memory.

Simple classroom and homework strategies to assist children with poor working memory include the use of a computer for written work, limiting verbal instructions (write a list on the board), chunking longer activities into smaller tasks, sticking to routines, having an easy cue to bring the child back to task, minimising distractions, but don’t forget to encourage and reinforce focused behaviour. And don’t make them stay in to finish their work.

Jo Whithear is a reading specialist and director of the Canberra Reading Clinic. There will be an information session on Cogmed, a computer-based program designed to improve working memory, at the Mort Street, Braddon clinic on Monday June 18, 10.30am and 12.30pm. Call 6251 6815.