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Student experiences of neurodiversity in higher education: insights from the BRAINHE project
Author(s) -
Griffin Edward,
Pollak David
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
dyslexia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.694
H-Index - 51
eISSN - 1099-0909
pISSN - 1076-9242
DOI - 10.1002/dys.383
Subject(s) - psychology , set (abstract data type) , allowance (engineering) , thematic analysis , strengths and weaknesses , dyslexia , higher education , identity (music) , developmental psychology , social psychology , pedagogy , qualitative research , medical education , linguistics , reading (process) , medicine , aesthetics , sociology , social science , mechanical engineering , philosophy , computer science , law , political science , engineering , programming language
The number of students with identified learning differences (LDs) of all kinds is increasing in higher education. This qualitative study explored the experiences of 27 current and previous students with a range of specific LDs by means of semi‐structured interviews, using a thematic approach. The findings revealed that participants shared many life experiences and preferences for learning irrespective of their type of LD. Participants generally held one of two views about their identity as ‘neurodiverse’: a ‘difference’ view—where neurodiversity was seen as a difference incorporating a set of strengths and weaknesses, or a ‘medical/deficit’ view—where neurodiversity was seen as a disadvantageous medical condition. The former view was associated with expressions of greater career ambition and academic self‐esteem, while the latter view was associated more with processes for obtaining the Disabled Students' Allowance. Many of the participants reported similar experiences in education and with university support; many did not feel adequately supported by their institutions. Recommendations are made for increased awareness training among lecturers and better liaison between university departments. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.