The rise of online learning poses challenges in identifying and supporting students with cognitive disorders, notably ADHD. This neurodevelopmental disorder, diagnosed in childhood, impacts academic performance. With the prevalence of online education, early detection and intervention for ADHD are crucial. Predictive techniques using digital traces, behavioral patterns, and physiological data during online sessions are studied. Machine and deep learning models, including supervised and unsupervised approaches, identify ADHD-related behaviors. Natural language processing analyzes textual interactions for signs of inattention or hyperactivity. Eye-tracking and physiological sensors reveal attention levels during online activities. Though offline classrooms allow direct interaction, these techniques enable timely interventions, enhancing ADHD students' experiences in the digital learning era. Further research to refine and address challenges will contribute to a more inclusive and effective online learning environment.
Intelligent Solutions for Cognitive Disorders
Top1. Introduction
Neurodevelopmental disorders are childhood-onset conditions affecting nervous system growth, resulting in social, communicative, and behavioral difficulties. They intersect with cognitive disorders, which encompass broader impairments in memory, thinking, and daily function, often sharing genetic, neurological, or environmental underpinnings (Baltà-Salvador et al., 2021). Conditions like autism and ADHD exemplify this intricate interplay. ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental condition mostly diagnosed in children and teenagers. According to a survey from 2016-2019, around 6 million children aged 3-17 have been diagnosed with ADHD in the US, with higher rates in boys (13%) than girls (6%). Black and White, non-Hispanic children are more frequently diagnosed compared to Hispanic and Asian, non-Hispanic children. Diagnosis rates vary by state, ranging from 6% to 16%, and treatment rates vary from 58% to 92%. About 6 in 10 children with ADHD also have another mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder, such as behavior problems, anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, or Tourette syndrome (Data and Statistics About ADHD, n.d.). A child with ADHD typically displays inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity behaviors. They might struggle to focus on tasks, make careless mistakes, become easily distracted, and have difficulty organizing activities. Hyperactivity can lead to restlessness, fidgeting, and difficulty staying seated. Impulsivity might manifest as interrupting conversations, acting without thinking and struggling to wait their turn. These behaviors are usually persistent, disruptive, and not age-appropriate, often impacting the child's school performance and social interactions. Effective management involves a tailored approach, including behavioral strategies, therapy, and sometimes medication, to help the child succeed in various aspects of their life. Furthermore, online learning's rise poses challenges for ADHD student support (Physiopedia, n.d.). Continued research is vital for refining the evolving educational landscape with the help of predictive techniques like machine learning, NLP, and physiological analysis promising early detection and personalized aid, improving digital education's inclusiveness.