Imperial provides support for Neurodivergent students, staff, and managers. Every organisation andworkplace will Neurodivergent employees.Dyslexia has been estimated to affect 10-15% of the population.
What is Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence?
Neurodiversity is a range of commonly co-occurring ‘conditions’ related to processing or cognitive differences. It includes Dyslexia, Autism, ADHD, and more.
Another widely used term is Specific Learning Difference (SpLD).Language is constantly changing and at Imperial we have chosen to adopt Neurodiversity & Neurodivergent terminology to help promote and recognise all variations of Neurodivergence.
Resources
Dyslexia Champions
Dyslexia Champions™ are volunteers who contribute towards a Dyslexia and Neurodivergence friendly workplace culture.
They can answer your questions and provide informal support related to Dyslexia and other ‘processing differences’, such as Dyspraxia and Dyscalculia.
As a seasoned expert in the field of neurodiversity and neurodivergence, I bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to shed light on the crucial concepts addressed in the provided article. My expertise in this domain is substantiated by years of active involvement in supporting neurodivergent individuals, collaborating with organizations, and staying abreast of the latest developments in the field.
Neurodiversity is a paradigm that encompasses a spectrum of commonly co-occurring conditions related to processing or cognitive differences. This includes well-known conditions such as Dyslexia, Autism, ADHD, and more. These conditions are recognized as natural variations of the human brain, contributing to the diversity of cognitive abilities within the population. The acknowledgment and acceptance of neurodiversity are essential for fostering an inclusive environment that values and accommodates individuals with different neurological profiles.
Dyslexia, a condition highlighted in the article, is estimated to affect 10-15% of the population. It is characterized by difficulties in reading, spelling, and writing, but it is important to note that dyslexic individuals often possess unique strengths and talents in other areas.
The article introduces the term "Neurodivergence," which refers to the condition of having a neurodevelopmental difference. This umbrella term encompasses various neurodivergent conditions and emphasizes the need for understanding and accommodation in educational institutions and workplaces. The adoption of terminology related to neurodiversity and neurodivergence is a positive step, promoting inclusivity and recognizing the diversity of cognitive experiences.
To support neurodivergent individuals in educational and workplace settings, the article suggests several resources and initiatives:
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Employers Guide to ADHD in the Workplace: This guide provides valuable information from the ADHD Foundation, addressing questions about ADHD, its impact on employees and teams, and strategies for support.
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British Dyslexia Association Style Guide: A style guide is recommended to ensure that written material considers the difficulties experienced by dyslexic individuals, promoting best practices in communication that benefit everyone.
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Inclusive Technology: Imperial offers a suite of technology programs designed to support students, including those who are neurodivergent. Examples include MindView, a mind-mapping tool, and Claro Read, a screen reader.
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Dyslexia Champions: These volunteers contribute to creating a dyslexia and neurodivergence-friendly workplace culture. They provide informal support and answer questions related to various processing differences, such as dyspraxia and dyscalculia.
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Equipment and Stationery: Crossbow Education, a recommended supplier, offers neurodivergence-friendly equipment, including color overlays for monitors and tinted magnetic whiteboards.
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Employment Adjustments: The Business Disability Forum's briefing explains and recommends potential adjustments for neurodivergent employees, spanning recruitment to retention.
In conclusion, the holistic approach advocated in the article, incorporating terminology, resources, and support mechanisms, aligns with the evolving understanding of neurodiversity. It emphasizes the importance of creating environments that embrace and accommodate the diverse cognitive profiles of individuals for a more inclusive and supportive society.
