Speed of Information Processing

Disclaimer: This information sheet is for education purposes only. Please consult with your doctor or other health professional to make sure this information is right for your child.

What is it?

Information processing is a broad aspect of our cognitive functioning that has an impact on most things we do. It refers generally to our ability to efficiently manage and absorb information we are presented with in any situation. The part of information processing that is most often discussed is the speed at which it is done and this refers to our ability to complete these cognitive activities in a reasonable amount of time. After an acquired brain injury, information processing skills may be slowed.

Information processing capacity is linked with attention and concentration for example, our attention helps select what information will be processed.

Examples of difficulties due to slowed information processing

• Slow completion of classwork and difficulty completing tasks in allotted time
• Unable to cope with amount of homework
• Difficulty copying from the board quickly
• Difficulties following fast moving conversations and activities in class & playground
• Slower speech, slower to answer questions in class, difficulty keeping up with and contributing to class discussions
• Always seem `one step behind'

What strategies might help?

• Allow extra time to complete tasks, including classwork, homework and exams
• If the child has not completed a task and needs to move on reassure them and prompt them to begin the next activity
• Limit the use of timed tests and tasks
• Alter or reduce the amount of work required if necessary so the child is not expected the spend twice as long working to complete the same amount as others and is not as aware that they are failing to complete work that their peers are
• Provide written or photocopied notes instead of asking the child to copy them down
• Allow plenty of time for processing instructions and questions, and for a response

Who do I see and how is it diagnosed?

Difficulties with thinking or cognitive skills such as these are formally identified by having a neuropsychological assessment and a neuropsychologist can help devise compensatory and management strategies (such as those above) that are suitable for the individual child and their particular cognitive strengths and weaknesses.

Rehabilitation Department The Children's Hospital at Westmead Cnr Hawkesbury Rd & Hainsworth St, Westmead Locked Bag 4001, Westmead, 2145 Tel: (02) 9845 2132 - Fax: (02) 9845 0685 http://www.chw.edu.au/rehabilitation/