Looking For Neurodiversity Resources?
Scroll to the bottom of this post for our current list of neurodiversity resources.
What is it?
Neurodiversity is a concept that helps us understand and appreciate the natural variety of human minds.
Just as we celebrate diversity in nature, culture, and human appearances, neurodiversity encourages us to embrace the different ways people think, process information, and experience the world.
This idea recognises that conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others are not deficits, but rather different ways of being that contribute to the rich tapestry of human experience.
In the world of neurodiversity, there are no “normal” or “abnormal” brains, but rather a wide range of cognitive abilities and styles.
By adopting this perspective, we can foster more inclusive environments, improve education, and create better support systems for those with neurodiverse conditions.
Instead of trying to “fix” people to fit a narrow definition of “normal,” we can work together to build a society that values and respects the unique gifts of each individual.
What’s the connection to adult education?
That’s something I’ll be exploring over a series of posts. Neurodiversity has significant implications for adult education as it highlights the importance of recognizing and accommodating the diverse learning needs and cognitive styles of adult learners.
Just as in primary and secondary education, embracing neurodiversity in adult education settings ensures that students with different neurological backgrounds, such as those with dyslexia, ADHD, autism, or other conditions, have the necessary support to succeed in their learning journey.
By adopting inclusive teaching strategies, providing appropriate accommodations, and fostering a supportive learning environment, adult educators can empower neurodiverse students to thrive and reach their full potential.
Moreover, understanding neurodiversity helps educators create a more inclusive and effective learning experience for all students, regardless of their neurological makeup, ultimately promoting lifelong learning and personal growth.
Neurodiversity Resources
Annette Tofaeono’s Style Guide
If you found this useful, you may want to download the free Dyslexia-Friendly Style Guide by my friend Annette Tofaeono
TEC Neurodiversity resources
There are resources and advice for tertiary education organisations (TEOs) here from the Tertiary Education Commission that you can use to help support neurodiverse learners.
Embracing Neurodiversity in Vocational Education: Understanding and Supporting Diverse Learners
There’s a breakdown here of some of the more common kinds of neurodiversity including challenges faced by adult learners.
Understanding Literacy Difficulties & Learning Differences: Guest Post by Annette Tofaeono
Read Annette’s research extract on some of the causes of literacy difficulties and learning differences
How Can You Tell If Your Organisation Is Dyslexia Friendly?
Rate your organisation on how dyslexia friendly it is with this two-page PDF on key indicators.
