Classrooms everywhere are made up of a unique blend of students with different learning styles. There is a great degree of variability in which individuals learn and process information. Some students who process information differently than their peers identify as neurodivergent.
Neurodivergent is a term used to describe individuals whose cognitive function differs from what is considered "typical." Neurodiverse people often have a different brain structure or chemistry that causes them to learn or behave socially in a way that may not fit into traditional styles of education.
Some conditions that fall under the umbrella of neurodiversity include autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD), or other speech and language delays. Each of these differences can impact an individual’s emotions, memory, and learning ability. Students who are neurodiverse have unique learning needs and strengths that often go unmet or unrecognized in classroom environments.
This is why educators must work collaboratively with students, staff, and parents to develop inclusive and accommodating environments. Before we dive into practical ways educators can embrace diversity in the classroom, let’s first learn more about the current obstacles neurodiverse students face in schools today.
Current Challenges for Neurodiverse Students in Schools
When working with neurodiverse students, teachers face a variety of learning preferences and abilities. These students often face unique struggles in traditional school settings due to a lack of understanding from school administration, teachers, and peers.
The social and behavioral differences common to students with ASD can be misunderstood by administrators, creating mishandled disciplinary situations that can lead to higher dropout and expulsion risks. Neurodiverse students are also more prone to bully or be bullied—especially online. A recent study noted that 77% of children on the autism spectrum reported being bullied.
It is of utmost importance that schools protect all their students by fostering safe, supportive environments. Next, let’s explore five ways educators can accommodate and embrace neurodiversity in their classrooms.
Supporting Neurodiverse Students: 5 Ways Teachers Can Help
Having accommodations for unique learning needs is essential to students’ success in the classroom. Here are just a few ways you can advocate for neurodiversity in your classroom:
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Foster a psychologically safe environment: When students feel safe asking questions or not understanding concepts, they feel safe and confident enough to overcome the obstacles that inhibit their learning. Teachers can use body language and repeat students’ thoughts to show active listening and make their classroom feel like a safe place to learn.
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Provide multiple ways of learning: No two students learn the same way. For example, many students learn math better online than with lecture-style instruction. Perhaps one student might need visuals to learn whereas others might need hands-on experience to remember concepts. When teachers diversify their teaching methods, they help all students achieve learning success through their unique learning styles.
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Recognize each student’s strengths and talents: Neurodivergent students have special strengths that, when noticed and appreciated by their teachers and peers, will help them thrive in the classroom. Students with ASD, for instance, are often detail-oriented and thus problem-solve in distinct but equally helpful ways. Educators can highlight and play into these strengths to enhance students’ learning experiences.
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Provide options for parental engagement: Parents and family members can often give helpful insight into how to serve their child’s classroom needs best. A parent-teacher relationship also creates a connection between school and home and can benefit all involved.
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Create routines: For many neurodivergent students, especially those with ADHD, a predictable routine is immensely helpful in the classroom setting. When students know what to expect, they are better positioned to devote their focus and attention to whatever activity is at hand.
Foster the Future of Neurodiversity in the Classroom at SOLES
Educators leave lasting impacts on the lives of each of their students. At USD SOLES, we prepare future teachers to have the knowledge and confidence to lead and equip students of all learning styles in their classrooms.
Earn a degree that will educate you on the best practices to address the needs of all types of students, especially those who are neurodiverse. Our unique Dual Credential Program provides educators with a comprehensive curriculum for teaching across ages and learning needs.
In the Dual Credential Program, students at SOLES earn an MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with either a Multiple Subject Credential (K-6 grade) or Single Subject Credential (7-12 grade) and an Education Specialist Credential (Mild/Moderate Disabilities).
Hear directly from the Dean of USD's School of Leadership and Education Sciences, Dr. Kimberly White-Smith, on how the classroom is changing to meet the needs of neurodiverse students. Listen now on the "At the Edge of It All" podcast.
Schedule a meeting with our graduate admissions team to learn more about our teaching pathways and how to select the right track for you. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Degree of Difference blog to get the latest insights about the future of education from SOLES.
If you want to learn more about how USD’s Master’s in Education program will prepare you to educate future generations of workers and leaders, check out our comprehensive resource: Teachers for the Next Generation — Getting a Future-Focused Master’s in Education