List of suggestions for supporting neurodivergent students in higher education:
General Suggestions:
Please note: These are things that would have helped me significantly in my university journey; I cannot speak for every student. It is extremely important to ask individuals what they may need to thrive, as every neurodivergent person has unique needs.
- A break on every tutorial because it can be extremely difficult to sustain attention. Additionally, it may be hard to sit for long because of pain, fatigue and input from stimuli.
- PowerPoints should include images because many neurodivergent people are visual learners
- Interactive activities in every tutorial; this can help with engagement
- Never force the use of breakout rooms, coming on camera or engaging in conversations or group activities- always leave room for choice and do not penalise people for choosing not to interact
- Avoid text-heavy slides and material; use headings, images and bullet points to break up large amounts of text
- Avoid jargon; if it must be used, define words clearly and keep to a minimum.
- Clearly define acronyms and reduce their use
- Coursework feedback should be personalised to the student
- Scaffolding can support learning; this is a direct example of how to improve work, not vague direction to “write more succinctly” or to “improve the structure” – these comments are not helpful and can be hurtful and confusing
- Be clear and consistent in the expectations of the course, in your communication and in your role
- Remember to empower, raise students’ confidence and morale, and provide motivation when things get tough
- Never question or challenge someone’s diagnosis or struggles
- Never say “we are all a little bit autistic”
- Never assume that someone may not struggle, as one day they can do things, but on other days are unable to. Neurodivergence is not concrete or linear, and every day is different.
- Do not be afraid to ask someone how to correctly say or speak about something- individuals all have preferred ways of using language.
- Remember, if appropriate, carefully and sensitively highlight to students that there is the Disabled Student Allowance, and other support services at the university
- Acknowledge your position of power and do your best to break this down; collaboration with students is highly effective and reduces power imbalances
- Finally, ask, ask, and ask what support someone may need to thrive- and then continue to ask regularly! Each person is unique, and it may take a few tries to get your collaboration right.
Education can be life-changing for neurodivergent people. Everyone has a right to access it in a way that meets their needs and enables them to thrive and improve their wellbeing and life outcomes.
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