In which Environment Can the Caged Bird Sing?

Type of Abstract (select): Paper presentation

Abstract (max. 250 words):
I was inspired to conduct research on the correlation between freetime and the experience of students with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD) in education during my first year teaching English In Hungary. I started my project on the basis of Henri Lefebvre’s Rhythmanalysis method of research. A similarity between the American and Hungarian cultures is the belief that breaks and personal time is essential, although Ohio students receive less free time compared to students in Hungary. Free time is proven to be essential to cognitive function and memory, according to Kirsten Milliken’s PLAYdhd. Taking breaks during learning also allows for a child’s brain to subconsciously replay learned material according to studies. I have spoken to 16 adults within the education field, men and women, ranging in ages from 20s to 50s. I voice record the interviews and annotate the transcripts to look for themes. I noted similarities between the two countries and culture shocks. A common theme I found in dialog with teachers from Hungary and America was the struggle of limited time. Modifications made by teachers align with Albert Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory. Using Pierre Bourdieu’ coined concept habitus, I am looking at the underlying structures within the school social life, which regulates the opportunities of thoughts and actions of students. The research is going in the direction of discovering the relationship between students’ mental health and school routine. Further findings may suggest a correlation between more freetime with not only emotional wellbeing improvement, but also greater academic success.


Brief Professional Bio (max. 100 words):
In 2022, Rachel Dimeff received a bachelor's degree from Miami University, where she pursued American Studies and Anthropology. Following her experience in writing and intention to work in a university, Rachel now is teaching English in Hungary to primary level students.