What PD Course Should I Take for Teaching Neurodiverse Learners?

Key Takeaways

• Neurodiverse students introduce both challenges and opportunities for education professionals.

• By understanding neurodiversity and implementing inclusive classroom strategies, teachers make it possible for neurodiverse learners to thrive.

• Professional development is a key resource for making classrooms welcoming and supportive for all students.  

In the past, educational strategies for neurodiverse learners focused on isolation, discipline, and a general lack of support. Classroom success depended on a student’s ability to conform to “normative” standards—and that burden was placed almost entirely on them.  

The story could not be more different today. Education professionals have realized that creating inclusive environments for students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and dyslexia helps all students achieve better performance.

Of course, understanding neurodiversity is not a given in education. Professional development courses like Understanding Neurodivergence in the Classroom are core resources for helping teachers and administrators account for the needs of neurodiverse learners and evolve as new research becomes available.  

So what are some of the most valuable neurodiverse topics every education professional should explore? Here’s an overview of neurodivergence in today’s classrooms, and some powerful PD coursework that supports inclusion.

An Inclusive Classroom Snapshot

Teachers and administrators are the beating heart of welcoming, inclusive classrooms that make space for millions of neurodiverse learners who walk through their doors every year. Training is essential for helping professionals in all roles understand the students in their care and create environments in which everyone can excel.  

The best PD courses empower education professionals to:

• Identify neurodiverse learners in the classroom

• Make thoughtful accommodations

• Foster compassionate social dynamics

• Develop effective classroom management plans

• Support neurodiverse learners through difficult experiences

• Aid in educational and personal transitions  

Is it a big task? Absolutely, but with high-quality PD coursework from a reputable online provider, teachers can gain valuable insights about neurodiverse learners on timelines that match their busy schedules. Here are some PD topics to explore:

1. Engaging with Neurodiverse Students

Roughly 1 in 5 students is estimated to be neurodivergent, but that doesn’t mean every strategy works for every young person. Educators need to have a thorough understanding of the complexities of a variety of neurodiverse conditions to provide appropriate materials and support.  

• ASD. Autism varies in severity, and no two individuals will present identically. Support can range from providing additional processing time on tests to emotional and sensory accommodations.  

• ADHD. Roughly 7 million children have been diagnosed with ADHD, and biases may result in girls being disproportionately affected in schools.  

• Dyslexia and dyspraxia. These conditions affect a student’s ability to read, process information, and coordinate their movements. Teachers should be aware of common coping mechanisms and indicators.  

• Sensory Processing Disorder. These students can quickly become overwhelmed by intense sounds, smells, tastes, or touch.  

Suggested Course:

• ADHD Unmasked: Recognizing and Reshaping Girls' Learning Experiences

2. IEPs and 504s

A well-designed IEP or 504 can be the difference between a thriving education experience and marginalization for neurodiverse learners. Writing these documents properly is also a legal obligation—so educators need to understand every element to ensure they are both compliant and effective.  

But what are the differences, what are they intended to achieve, and which is appropriate for your student?

Suggested Courses:

• The Art of Writing Quality IEPs: Best Practices for Educators

• Understanding and Implementing Section 504 Plans: Ensuring Equity and Access for All Students

3. Classroom Management

Why do some teachers experience high rates of burnout while others seem to have rewarding and low-stress days? A great classroom management strategy is the foundation of inclusive, fair, engaging education environments that encourage all students to feel valued and encouraged to participate.  

Suggested Courses:

• Classroom Management I: Creating Classroom Expectations

• Classroom Management II: Quick Everyday Tricks to Create a Positive and Safe Classroom Environment

4. Strategies for Neurodiverse Learners

There are many ways to create inclusive classrooms that support neurodiversity, and strategies often have overlapping benefits for all learners. To produce the best results, educators need to know how to:

• Identify common indicators of neurodivergence

• Understand the barriers these students face

• Leverage effective communication

• Implement strengths-based accommodations

• Engage with colleagues, administration, and other professionals

Suggested Course:

• Understanding Neurodivergence in the Classroom: Practical Tools for Support and Inclusion

Renewing Your Experience with Neurodiversity in the Classroom

Classroom diversity is on the rise, and teachers are encountering new challenges and opportunities with each passing year. It’s an exciting time to be a teacher, and professional development is a key ally for staying on top of new trends and helping all of your students excel.  

Premiere stands arm in arm with today’s education professionals, providing online coursework for creating inclusive classrooms and supporting neurodiverse learners. Start exploring our course library today.

FAQs

What is an example of a neurodivergent learner?

Students with ASD, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and sensory processing disorder all experience learning diversities that can impact their ability to succeed in rigid classroom environments.  

What does a neurodivergent classroom look like?

Classrooms that are inclusive for neurodivergent learners may involve adjusted seating plans, assistive technology, adaptive assessments, movement breaks, and visual aids.

Why is school hard for neurodivergent students?

Classrooms are active, highly stimulating, social environments that set generalized academic standards most students are required to meet. Neurodivergent students may struggle with processing, sensory, or emotional difficulties that impact their ability to participate in daily activities.  

However, when teachers are trained to understand these complications and create inclusive environments, both neurodivergent and neurotypical students can benefit from enhanced learning opportunities.  

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