Module 06: Attention

Description: In a world full of stimuli, how do we focus on what’s important? This module explores theories of attention, including selective attention, divided attention, and automaticity. We examine how attention acts as a gateway between sensation/perception and memory.

 Why This Module is Important: Understanding attention is crucial for counseling practice. Therapists use this knowledge to help clients with attention-related disorders like ADHD, anxiety, or schizophrenia. This understanding helps counselors teach mindfulness techniques and develop strategies for improving focus and concentration. Beyond therapy, these principles inform educational practices for maintaining student engagement, guide UI designers in creating non-distracting interfaces, and help safety experts understand attention-related accidents. This knowledge helps you understand how people manage cognitive resources in any context.

Module Learning Objectives: By the end of this module students will be able to…

• MLO1: Describe how attention connects sensation/perception to memory. (CLO1, ULO1, APA1)
• MLO2: Analyze attention-related disorders and their treatments. (CLO2, CLO5, ULO1, APA2, APA5)
• MLO3: Evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of automaticity. (CLO2, CLO4, ULO1, APA2, APA4)