‘Children at Risk’ of Poor Educational Outcomes: Insights from a (Neuro-)Cognitive Perspective

Abstract

Taking a (neuro-)cognitive perspective, this article deals with preconditions of successful learning and maladaptive developmental processes related to deficient learning processes and poor educational outcomes. Three strands of research are focused that have made significant contributions to the understanding of (neuro-)cognitive risks for poor educational outcomes: intelligence research, research on working memory, and research on attentional processes. Selected examples from these areas of research are provided with a summary of main conclusions. In addition, we highlight current research gaps by arguing that there is a specific need for (a) future research focusing on the interactions between the (neuro-)cognitive functions described, as well as for (b) integrating results from the (neuro-)cognitive perspective into a broader conceptual framework of risk factors. A claim is made that more research is needed linking insights from different scientific perspectives and methodological traditions to generate approaches that successfully contribute to a substantial reduction of the percentage of students with poor educational outcomes.