By: Sandy Parsons
This is a contributed post.
Educators strive to create the best possible learning environment for their students.
However, there is no one-size-fits-all, and neurodiverse learners in particular will often
struggle to meet the demands of their studies if the appropriate level of support isn’t in
place.
Neurodiversity describes the differences in brain function and thought processes between
all individuals. Those who think, behave, or interact with the world differently from the
the majority (neurotypical people) may be described as neurodivergent – this generally
encompasses autism spectrum disorder (ASD), dyslexia and dyscalculia, and attention-
deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), among other umbrella conditions.
To create a more conducive learning environment for neurodiverse students, teachers
should aim to support them in the ways outlined in this blog post.
Accommodate different learning styles
Learning techniques used within the classroom are generally geared toward the needs of
neurotypical students. To accommodate all students, teachers should be willing to deliver
their lessons in alternative formats and encourage students to use the learning techniques that feel most helpful to them when revising in their own time.
For example, teachers might suggest students complete their homework with a partner
(body-doubling technique), sit at the front of the classroom during lessons, or record
lessons to play back later, if they have trouble concentrating in class. They may also allow
extended deadlines for graded pieces of work, or let students sit exams in a separate room
from their peers if they tend to experience sensory overload.
Have the appropriate resources available
Ensuring accessible learning for neurodiverse students may require additional resources,
such as assistive technology to take notes or record lessons, or colored overlays to make
textbooks easier to read. Aside from academic equipment, some students may benefit
from having a specialist learning support assistant to help them in the classroom.
While some students can independently seek extra help, disadvantaged students may lack
access to these essential resources. Therefore, institutions should strive to provide them
wherever possible to guarantee equal access for all students.
Commit to educating and understanding
Above all else, teachers should make an effort to stay on top of their own learning, to allow
them to better understand the challenges neurodiverse students face as well as their
unique needs within the classroom. They might achieve this through attending training
sessions, or simply by opening up the conversation with their colleagues, and forging
stronger connections with the parents or guardians of their students (if they’re of pre-
college age). Often, the best way to improve is simply to understand.
A single educator equipped with this knowledge can have a far-reaching impact – they’ll
not only have the opportunity to improve their own classroom environment but they’ll also
be able to do their bit to support other teachers in improving their practices.
Educators should remember that every student is different, and the level and type of
support required for one learner to flourish may not be the same across the board. Support
should be based on individual needs, to ensure every student is able to achieve their best
academically and get the most out of their time spent in education.
Comentários