With 1 in 7 people being neurodivergent, updating the traditional education system to cater to the
needs of individuals with specific learning difficulties (SpLD) like ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Autism, is
key to the future of education.
Neurodiversity backs the idea that everyone has a unique brain which learns, thinks, and memorises
differently – it is the variation of cognitive functioning in people.
Neurodivergence makes our world amazingly creative. However, education is still largely delivered via traditional
and rigid means which aren’t beneficial for much of the population.
For students to learn optimally, it’s important for teachers, parents or guardians to highlight the need for clinical diagnosis.
Treating neurodivergent students according to their needs from their primary years in school has a great impact on their future,
and diagnosis is the first step for this – it helps develop them into the successful individuals they are meant to be.
Not sure about undergoing a formal diagnosis? Use these quizzes which might nudge you towards or away from a medical diagnosis.
Feeling included is crucial for all, but more so for neurodivergent students. Fortunately there are many ways to make those who are neurodivergent feel valued in any educational environment.
Educational institutions can take small steps to promote awareness and inclusivity among students by carrying out neurodiversity specific assemblies, visiting charities, volunteering, conducting workshops and including techniques that promote neurodiverse thinking in day-to-day learning.
Move through our slider to find out more about government schemes such as DSA, best examples by schools, and more on how to promote neurodiversity:
When teaching for neurodiversity, the needs of all learners should be met and inclusivity practised in the classroom.
Different techniques can be used to talk to neurodivergent brains, like making teachings more visual with mind mapping. Such changes can be transformational for the success of neurodivergent students.
Even small changes can help everyone thrive with their learning. See some of our top tips in the slider.
Discover how to harness the power of AI combined with Mind Maps to generate content, refine your ideas, and improve your writing style.
Watch our video
There are many well-known neurodivergent achievers who have contributed to society with ground-breaking ideas, achieving amazing feats!
After all, neurodivergence is not a signifier of intelligence nor a limiter.
Remember, representation matters. It can inspire, motivate and make the world a better place.
When delivering neurodiversity-friendly learning, educators should also showcase the amazing achievements of those with neurological differences.
Click on the mind maps below to find out more about some inspiring neurodivergent icons.
Society as a whole is moving towards inclusivity and equal opportunities for everyone, and providing inclusive education is the first step towards this change.
Education is a stepping stone into the workplace. Making sure that education is accessible to neurodivergent students therefore is essential. Inevitably the future will be driven by technology so finding a partnership between life-long learning and technology should be every educator’s priority.
