Embracing the SQR3L: A Fresh Take on an Old Joke

The "squirrel" analogy is a familiar joke (Look a squirrel!) within the ADHD community, symbolizing the quick-shifting focus that many individuals with ADHD experience. Picture this: you're trying to concentrate, and suddenly, something as simple as a squirrel outside your window captures your attention. This joke can be tiring and disregard neurodiversity. 

It's a light-hearted metaphor, but it also touches on the deeper challenges of navigating ADHD, particularly when it comes to learning and retaining information. A recent study (Barack David L., et al. 2024) found that attention deficits can increase how quickly a forager leaves a patch when exploring for food and this led to greater rewards than those who did not move on so quickly. This suggests that distractibility may have been an advantage in some settings. While this suggests some benefits, we can all agree that many people’s job descriptions require more focus and follow-through than exploration. 

The Reality Behind the Joke

While the "squirrel" analogy may elicit a chuckle, it's crucial to acknowledge the real challenges faced by those with ADHD. This stereotype, however amusing, can overshadow the genuine difficulties in maintaining focus and achieving functional goals. The SQR3L method aims not to belittle these challenges but to offer a strategy that respects and accommodates the unique learning needs of individuals with ADHD.

Enter the SQR3L method, a playful twist on the established SQR3 strategy (Scanning, Questioning, Reading, Reciting, Reviewing), designed to complement the learning styles of those with ADHD by incorporating elements of "Live, Love, Laugh." While it might sound reminiscent of a decorative plaque you'd stumble upon in a clearance aisle, there's genuine wisdom in weaving these concepts into educational techniques.

The Squirrel Approach: Scan, Question, Read, Recite, Review

The original SQR3 method is an alternative to what I call the  "vacuum approach," suggesting that learners should be able to absorb all necessary information in a single, streamlined effort. However, this method may not always suit individuals with ADHD, who often benefit from "chunking" information into manageable parts. The SQR3L method retains the core stages of SQRL3 but injects a dose of humor and humanity into the learning process with its nod to "Live, Love, Laugh."

Live, Love, Laugh: More Than Just a Cliché

At first glance, "Live, Love, Laugh" might seem like a well-worn cliché, yet it encapsulates important elements of a positive learning environment. A negative mood such as stress and anxiety can interfere with  motivation and learning outcomes. For individuals with ADHD, who might struggle with traditional learning methods, fostering an atmosphere of joy and curiosity can be transformative.