2020 ushered in previously unanticipated blended and hybrid modes of learning. Tutors have had to adapt rapidly to new ways of teaching, initially thought to be temporary but now seem to be a ‘new normal’.

In this event we will discuss neurodiversity and learning online. We aim to give a forum for neurodirgent students and Disability Services to share experiences from the past 12 months. The format was an informal facilitated discussion. We asked: How has the online learning experience been changing students’ expectations for future education and employment? What opportunities and challenges are there for neurodiverse students who are learning online? What has changed for student support services?

What is neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity describes differences between people who have varying characteristics and behaviours from neurodevelopmental conditions such as dyslexia, Tourrettes, ADHD, autism or Aspergers, which are thought to affect up to 40% of the UK population.

“Many aspects of society are based on the assumption that there is one form of ‘the human mind’ and accordingly many systems have been built up premised on being neurotypical.”

Source: ADHD Aware.org