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Learning and Teaching
Student Success - Best Practice Hub Case Studies
The Learning Experience of Neurodiverse (ND) Learners
Case Study
UON Programme:
Sport and Exercise (FAST) and Initial Teacher Training (ITT) (FHES)
Contact:
Summary of best practice:
An URB@N study that explored the learning experiences of neurodiverse (ND) learners at the University of Northampton. The notion of neurodiversity is increasingly better understood; however, it is also a term that covers a wide range of experiences. Neurodiversity is a catch-all term for learning needs, mental health needs, health needs and many more. The University of Northampton welcomes a wide range of learners who are increasingly exhibiting complex ND needs. By understanding their experiences, we can hope to use their experiences and suggested strategies to inform our practice.
Aims:
- To understand the preferences, strategies and methods that ND learners suggest as helpful for their learning journey.
- To explore the experiences of ND learners during their time of study at the University of Northampton.
- To produce a set of recommendations for staff at the University to support ND learners on their programmes.
Target Group
We used an online JISC Survey and the sample included students studying between Levels 4 and 8 at the University of Northampton that consider themselves to fall into the range of categories for ND. The final sample included 25 students: 20 identified as female, 4 males and 1 nonbinary. Their age range was between 19 and 70, with the average age being 31 years old. They described their ND as having a range of conditions including Dyslexia, ADHD, Autism and having a ‘super skill’ or ‘a brain that works differently’.
Impact
We have produced a set of considerations for staff when planning their teaching and learning. They are formed from the analysis of the data and offer suggestions from our participants. Much of what they say is relevant to all learners but could be a particularly helpful for ND learners.
- Pre- and post-learning to reduce anxiety and direct my study focus
- In person sessions with time to reflect and catch up on missed information
- Concise, simple to the point slides.
- Definitions of key terms and an example in context.
- Worked examples and summarised key points.
- Clear instructions that are staged and sequential.
- A clear structure on NILE- content, timeline, assessments, and dates.
- Regular wellbeing check-ins and a chance to ask questions 1:1.
- Private study spaces that are quiet and plain.
- For open ended assignments – support to filter the choices
- Resources available in a range of formats
- Reminders and repetition of notable dates
- Using the extension system and Mitigating Circumstances without feeling guilty
- Active tasks that involve me, so I don’t lose focus.