At Saint Leo, we have a richly diverse student body, including many neurodivergent learners. Some students may have conditions like ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, or other neurocognitive profiles. While these diagnoses can present certain academic challenges, neurodivergent students also possess unique strengths and talents that can tremendously enhance the classroom experience when properly supported. 

Neurodivergent learners often demonstrate exceptional capabilities like intense focus, meticulous attention to detail, innovative problem-solving, and deep expertise in areas of keen interest. However, they may face difficulties with executive functioning skills such as planning, organization, self-regulation, and synthesizing the “big picture.” 

This neurodiversity webpage will provide scholarly articles and information that will assist faculty when creating an academic inclusive environment where all students can thrive. It provides strategies for: 

• Building rapport and connections before the semester starts 
• Engaging neurodivergent students through varied materials and perspectives 
• Clearly modeling expectations for assignments, exams, and participation 
• Offering flexibility in learning pathways and explicit feedback loops 

By implementing a neurodiversity-affirmative pedagogical approach, we can tap into the diverse cognitive profiles represented across our courses. This empowers neurodivergent students to succeed academically while enriching the educational experience for all through an embrace of diverse ways of thinking. 

The neurodiversity resource underscores our commitment to cultivating an equitable, supportive higher education environment where every student has equal opportunity to fully participate, demonstrate their knowledge, and excel according to their unique strengths.