Have you ever thought how some of the classmates learn or talk differently to each other, but their peculiarities are not supported or observed? 

What if their brain function is a strength to flaunt, not a flaw to fix? Such is the niche of neurodiversity, which should be accepted by more schools. 

So, what is neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is an expression used to describe the inherent differences in the functioning of people’s brains. It has such conditions as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, etc. 

Did you realise that the worldwide population has about 15 to 20% neurodivergent people? It implies that in each and every classroom there must be a number of students whose brains are functioning differently.

What is so important about this? Since mainstream education models tend to target the neurotypically average students, neurodivergent students are left alone in their difficulties unintentionally. Have you experienced frustration due to receiving instruction in a manner that doesn’t align with your preferred learning style? It can only be more difficult for people whose brains are not wired the same way.

What do neurodivergent students struggle with?

Most neurodivergent students have troubles that cannot be noticed by others: attention problems, sensory sensitivities, social skills, or organisational issues. Some of these struggles may result in anxiety, reduced self-esteem, or even dropping out. For instance, research indicates that neurodivergent students often encounter less support and more social challenges compared to their peers.

Why is it that such silent battles are easily ignored most of the time? Could this be due to a lack of resources or awareness among schools? Or is it perhaps since neurodivergence has not made itself clear yet?

Why schools should be more attentive?

The argument in favour of neurodiversity is not only justice; it is also good. Neurodivergent people can offer creativity, hyperfocus, and unusual problem-solving skills, which benefit classrooms and communities. When schools are flexible enough to incorporate content to appeal to a wider variety of types of learners, this benefits all students because they no longer have to feel constrained by the source material and empathetic to the student as a fellow human being.

Think about a school where the curriculum would be composed to apply to various styles of thinking, where the sensory-friendly environments take place, and students would feel safe to be themselves. And would not that be a place where everybody can flourish?

What can students do this way?

You may question yourself, what you can do as a student. There are some ways in which we may do so:

• Learn and speak up: Learn about neurodiversity and tell your friends and teachers what you learn. Can you tell how many of your fellow students have an idea of what neurodiversity is?
• Be inclusive: Remember to invite those who may feel outcast or whose peers do not understand. The kind thing is little which is able to alter the school experience of a person.
• Be a change advocate: encourage or initiate student groups that create awareness and agitate changes such as accommodations (flexible assessment deadlines, quiet area, or alternative assessment), etc.
• Respect stigma: If someone is mocking a neurodivergent partner or ignoring their neurodivergence, it is important to speak up. Respect should be given to everyone.

Are schools ready to accept neurodiversity?

Things are improving; certain colleges and schools are inventing courses, which are specific to neurodivergent students, providing them with personal support and the right to choose their learning path. However, lot more remains to be done. As it stands now, neurodivergent people believe that in a great number of cases, their needs are not served comprehensively, be it in studying or in the workplace, later on in life.

Would it not be but natural that every student would like that environment where he or she is allowed to excel in his or her own way?

Takeaway: embracing neurodiversity is good news for all of us

Neurodiversity is not a downside that has to be gotten rid of but rather an asset that has to be celebrated. Schools will be able to demonstrate the simple idea that every brain is bright as long as the silent battles of neurodivergent students are listened to. As learners, you possess the capability to engender understanding, kindness, and change.

Therefore, how do you plan to make your school diverse today? Will you help others in experiencing a sense of recognition and acceptance? We celebrate all types of minds, and then we all win.