Neurodivergent students sometimes have a tough time when they get to college. Nationally, more than half of neurodivergent students drop out of college. In this study, we interviewed two experts at Miami University, one who works with Student Disability Services and one who teaches classes on disabilities. We found that while most college professors are willing to accommodate neurodivergent students, most do not know much about neurodivergence. It would be good to require faculty members to get trained in this area. We discovered many alarming statistics that are important to report on to the university. These range from how professors may understand neurodivergence to how post-secondary education is set up in relation to neurodivergent students. The majority of professors want to help but their knowledge is underdeveloped when it comes to how to deal with and teach these types of students. The hope is that we will bring awareness to the faculty and students on the issues lurking beneath the surface. We also hope to shine light on the neurodivergent professors who may be present at Miami University and help them to not just the students who are neurodivergent. In bringing awareness we are also hoping to inspire people to take part in some of the solutions we have presented. The solutions range from a hub for neurodivergent faculty and students to whatever you can come up with. The goal is to make Miami University a more friendly and more inclusive place for anyone who learns in a different manner or style.
Author(s): Salin J.M. Myers, Jennifer Blue, Ph.D
Advisor(s): Dr. Jennifer Blue, Physics
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