What worked best wasn't (in Mischel's words) "self-denial and grim determination," but doing something enjoyable while waiting so that self-control wasn't needed at all.
precisely the opposite of the usual message that (a) self-control is a matter of individual character, which (b) we ought to help children develop.
the ability to invent a distraction turned out to be correlated with plain old intelligence
"Impulsivity," they concluded, "is not a purely maladaptive trait, but one whose consequences hinge on the structure of the decisionmaking environment."
Perhaps the broader message for educators is this: Focus less on "fixing the kids" and more on improving what and how they're taught.
Free learning management system with good collection of resources, including discussion threads, assignment sharing/grading, messaging tools, flashcards, color-coded subjects/classes, more.
Remobo creates an Instant Private Network ™ (IPN) between users.
It's like a computer network for your social network...
Just login, add users to your buddy list, and Remobo will create a secure network for you to:
Remote control your home computer and access files while at work or traveling.
Privately share large files like photos & docs between computers or with friends & family.
Replace your existing, costly and difficult to use VPN software.
Run games, video conferencing, streaming media, secure instant messaging & more!