Sharing our experiences of supporting neurodivergent students in higher education

J. E. O'Donoghue*, K. S. Ross

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Higher education staff, both professional services and academic, are increasingly encountering neurodivergent students in their day-to-day practice. Pastoral support and access to adjustments can be complex for this cohort of students with the broad range of presentations, unique challenges and needs found in this diverse group. While registering with disability offices can allow access to adjustments, it is the staff who engage with these students every day who are in a powerful place to help students to thrive at university by adding nuance and additional adjustments to their learning experience. However, evidence for the range of bespoke accommodations that staff and students develop are thin on the ground. This chapter provides our observations of the challenges as well as practical suggestions on supportive approaches based on our lived experience.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationInclusive and accessible chemistry for further and higher education
Subtitle of host publicationdevelopments and opportunities for students with disabilities
EditorsJane Essex
Place of PublicationLondon
PublisherRoyal Society of Chemistry
Chapter6
Pages172-195
Number of pages24
ISBN (Electronic)9781837678617, 9781837678600
ISBN (Print)9781837675241
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 16 Jan 2026

Publication series

NameAdvances in chemistry education series
PublisherRoyal Society of Chemistry
Volume14
ISSN (Print)2056-9335
ISSN (Electronic)2056-9343

Keywords

  • Inclusion
  • Chemistry education
  • Neurodiversity
  • Undergraduate education
  • Postgraduate education
  • Professional services
  • Student welfare
  • Student support

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