Time of Day and Its Effect on Pupil Problem Solving and Classroom Behavior.

Bowers, Norman D.; Zagar, Robert J.

Fluctuations in problem solving and classroom behaviors during the school day for 43 hyperkinetic intermediate students with attention deficits were examined. Ss were observed with the Stonybrook Observation Code and tested with the Stroop Color-Word Test, Matching Familiar Figures, Porteus Mazes, and Digit Span. Data were collected in counterbalanced morning and afternoon sessons. Analysis of results revealed that Ss performed better in the morning on problem solving tasks except Digit Span. In classroom behavior, all Ss exhibited more interference, off task behavior, noncompliance, and minor motor movement in the afternoon. (Author/CL)