The Creative Classroom with John Spencer The Push and the Pull Needed to Help Students Focus
Jan 22, 2026
The conversation examines why focus is no longer automatic in a world of notifications and instant answers. It contrasts cultural assumptions about attention with scenes of students rehearsing deep, sustained work. Practical strategies are discussed for pushing away distractions through environment and rules, and for pulling students in with authentic, novel, curiosity-driven tasks.
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Focus Is The Foundation Of Deeper Learning
- Dr. John Spencer argues focus is foundational to deeper learning competencies like collaboration and resilience.
- He added focus to his deeper learning framework because attention enables flow, retention, and creative problem solving.
Deep Work Connects Focus To Flow And Retention
- Dr. John Spencer cites Cal Newport's concept of deep work as distraction-free concentration that pushes cognitive limits.
- He links deep work to flow and higher retention, explaining interruptions increase cognitive load and reduce meaningful focus.
Push For Focus With Environmental Norms
- Create environmental pushes for focus by setting norms, reducing phone use, and using spaces that demand attention.
- Example: the mock trial's summer boot camp builds endurance and a culture where no one is on their phone.
