Conceptualization and Operationalization of Executive Function

Executive function is comprised of different behavioral and cognitive elements and is considered to play a significant role in learning and academic achievement. Educational researchers frequently study the construct. However, because of its complexity functionally, the research on executive function can at times be both confusing and contradictory. To attempt to bring some clarity to the construct, a systematic review of contemporary empirical studies was conducted. A PsycInfo database search was conducted and 106 empirical studies were selected for review. The analyses explored specific aspects of these studies such as how executive function is defined and measured, and in what domains and population groups is it studied. The resulting analyses identified both points of convergence and divergence, as well as issues with both the conceptualization and operationalization of executive function.