New MiEN White Paper: Redesigning Learning Spaces for Neurodiverse Learners
During the 2021-22 school year, nearly 15% of students in U.S. public schools received special education services. Many of these students are considered to be neurodivergent––that is, they experience a neurological or learning disorder such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and sensory processing issues. Neurodiversity in learning spaces is essential to recognize because, while these students may have unique gifts and strengths, they also typically require additional support at school––both academically and socially.
There are neurodivergent students in every school in the country, yet many learning environments are not designed to support these learners’ unique gifts and needs. Many schools are ready to make updates to their classrooms and facilities to enrich the learning experience for neurodivergent students, but it can be a challenge to decide how to optimize resources to have the greatest positive effect on learning.
To help schools create spaces that are engaging and address neurodiverse learners’ needs, we have created a white paper titled “Redesigning Learning Spaces for Neurodiverse Learners.” This rich resource is authored by MiEN’s special needs consultant Cecilia Cruse, OTR/L who has decades of experience working with neurodivergent children in an educational setting.
Here’s what you can expect to learn from this FREE special education resource:
What is Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity refers to the fact that some brains function differently than “neurotypical” ones. This term encompasses many neurological conditions, including ADHD, autism, and sensory processing disorders. Neurodiversity embodies the idea that there is no “correct” way that brains work, and understanding these conditions is the first step to creating learning spaces that are inclusive and effective.
Challenges Neurodivergent Students Experience
In addition to the personal challenges neurodivergent students experience with executive functioning, learning, behavior, and social interactions, these learners are often misunderstood in the classroom. This can be due to lack of professional learning about neurodiversity and restrictive classrooms with limited access to accommodations. Understanding neurodiverse learners’ challenges can equip educators with the knowledge to advocate for environments that support all forms of neurocognitive functioning.
How to Teach With the Brain in Mind
Brain science is key to developing inclusive teaching practices. Brain-based instructional practices align with how the brain naturally processes and retains information. Changing the way we teach neurodivergent students by utilizing differentiated learning to meet the needs of their neurocognitive function is key to developing inclusive classrooms where all students can thrive.
How Schools Can Support Neurodiversity
When creating a plan to support neurodivergent students in the classroom, it’s important to look beyond their behavior. These students process information differently from their peers, which can result in responses to stimuli that are considered to be behavioral issues. Instead, educators should support these learners by creating an environment that is accommodating, engaging, and positive. In spaces that support neurodiverse ways of thinking and learning, students have a foundation of comfort and encouragement that can improve their ability to stay engaged and succeed academically.
The Transformative Qualities of UDL
Universal design for learning (UDL) is a design framework which strives to make teaching practices and learning environments inclusive and accommodating to every student’s needs. UDL emphasizes providing students with multiple, flexible types of engagement, different ways of presenting information, and multiple ways to demonstrate their understanding in the classroom. UDL is a transformative practice that helps neurodivergent students who experience learning challenges, but it also improves the learning experience for neurotypical students, boosting every student’s engagement and confidence.
How to Design Inclusive Classroom Spaces
Inclusive classroom environments can be created by prioritizing sensory-friendly design, ensuring accessibility, and utilizing UDL to support every students’ learning journey. A comfortable and accessible learning environment is critical for neurodivergent students who may have sensory needs, mobility challenges, or varied attention. Flexible furniture options, learning zones and quiet zones, and sensory tools are just a few ways schools can design inclusive classroom spaces. Check out our new white paper to explore even more ideas for designing neurodiversity-friendly classrooms.
Where to Find Funding to Update Learning Environments
Inclusive education requires investments in professional development, technology, staff, and physical modifications to learning environments. The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) distributes some funding for special education, but the current formula shortchanges the students with the highest need––those living in poverty and with disabilities.
Schools who are ready to update their learning spaces to support neurodivergent learners can receive additional funding through federal and state grants, community partnerships, incremental implementations, and private funding opportunities. Making an investment in neurodiversity-friendly learning spaces is an asset that will continuously provide benefits to students’ learning for years to come.
Discover Practical Strategies for Inclusive Learning Environments
For schools and educators committed to fostering supportive, inclusive spaces for neurodivergent students, our new white paper offers a wealth of practical insights and actionable strategies. From understanding neurodiversity and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to exploring funding options for transforming learning environments, this resource provides everything you need to create classrooms where every student can thrive.
To explore in-depth guidance on how to design effective and engaging environments for neurodiverse learners, download our latest white paper today.