Concentration is the ability to direct and control one’s attention to a specific subject. A person with a high ability to concentrate can easily ignore outside stimuli to focus on the task at hand. Concentration reduces the probability of getting distracted and pulling out from a task. Furthermore, concentration also means being able to focus on one task at a time, rather than losing attention and jumping between task, without finishing any. Concentration can include short bursts or longer periods of focus. According to Harvard University, studies of classroom performance place the focus period of anywhere between 10 to 52 minutes, while other studies suggest no longer than 90 minutes before needing a break.

Concentration is important in our daily lives, as well as in education and in our jobs. Concentration improves memory and cognitive function to assist in faster understanding of a topic: this in turn improves our ability to problem solve and come up with meaningful and effective solutions. When we concentrate, we can understand what we are thinking and express those thoughts more clearly to others to improve the positive energy of the group. When one possesses the ability to concentrate on a task, it helps to remain calm in difficult or tense situations, which can be key when working within a group.

Concentration is a key component of the learning process at every stage of life. However, adults who undertake learning can encounter specific concentration challenges that differ from those faced by children or adolescents.

The main causes of concentration problems in adults include:

• Duties and stress: Adults often balance learning with other responsibilities, such as work, family, or childcare. Continuous commitments can lead to chronic stress, which affects the ability to concentrate.

• Fatigue: Sleepless nights, long days at work, or household chores can impact an adult's energy level, making it harder to focus on learning.

• Health: As we age, various health issues can arise that affect concentration, including thyroid problems, depression, and anxiety disorders.

• Information overload: In today's world, we are inundated with information from various sources, leading to distractions.

Maintaining concentration during training sessions is a crucial factor in educational success. Adults bring their unique challenges, but trainers have numerous tools and strategies they can employ to help participants focus on the material.

Possible methods to apply include:

• Structure and planning: Set a clear training schedule and communicate it to the participants. Knowing what will happen and when allows participants to mentally prepare for different stages of the training.

• Short time blocks: Design training sessions to be brief and intense. Regular breaks every 20-30 minutes can help participants refresh their minds and regain energy.

• Diverse teaching methods: Use various methods, such as presentations, discussions, individual and group exercises, as well as multimedia tools, to engage participants.

• Active participation: Encourage participants to actively participate in the training, ask questions, take part in discussions, and share their experiences.

• Employ storytelling: Telling stories is a powerful tool that can capture participants' attention and make the material more memorable.

• Friendly environment: Ensure that the training room is comfortable, well-lit, and the equipment works correctly. Unsuitable conditions can be distracting and hinder focus.

• Physical exercises: Brief physical exercises or stretches can help participants "refresh" their mind and body and improve concentration by relaxing muscles and reducing cognitive overload.

• Visualisations and multimedia tools: Utilise visualisation tools such as videos, infographics, graphs, charts or animations to make the material more attractive and understandable.

• Use mindfulness techniques: Simple mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing or short meditation, can help participants concentrate and relax their minds.

• Consistent summarising: Regularly remind participants of the main points of the training, summarising the material and encouraging reflection through learning objectives.

• Use of technology: Tools like voting apps, interactive platforms or quizzes and games can be used to engage participants and test their understanding in real-time, as well as build positive relationships within the group through fun competition.

Concentration problems in the learning process of adults are common and arise from various factors. Nonetheless, by recognising the causes and applying effective strategies, adults can effectively handle these challenges and achieve educational successes. The key is adapting these strategies to the specific needs of the group and the training material. Being aware of these techniques and applying them in practice can significantly improve the quality of training and the engagement and concentration of participants.

Project No: 2021-1-PL01-KA220-ADU-000035239 - „Educator as a pillar of social inclusion in adult education” – co-funded by Erasmus+ Programme.

Fundacja Edukacji Rozwoju i Innowacji from Poland (Foundation of Education Development and
Innovation - FEDI)is a leader of the Consortium and the project Partners are: EDU SMART TRAINING CENTRE LIMITED from Ireland and SAMERIMPEX IMPULSI from Macedonia.