It’s estimated that over 20% of the global population is neurodivergent, encompassing conditions such as ADHD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia. Yet, traditional education systems often cater primarily to neurotypical learners, leaving neurodivergent students struggling to fit into a framework not designed for them. This lack of inclusivity can hinder their academic, social, and professional success.
Fortunately, partnerships between education and care systems are forging new paths to lifelong success for neurodivergent individuals.
Rethinking Classroom Environments
SMART Technologies, a global leader in interactive education technology, partnered with the University of Melbourne to conduct groundbreaking research on creating inclusive classroom environments. Their study resulted in 36 high-impact recommendations for using technology to remove barriers for neurodivergent students. These recommendations focus on three core principles:
- Adopting edtech tools that affirm student identities and self-identified needs: Tools like SMART’s Lumio aim to promote safe, inclusive environments by allowing students to contribute anonymously through activities like Shout It Out and Whole Class Workspace. This approach reduces anxiety and encourages participation.
- Involving students as collaborators in their learning journey: According to Kris Astle, education strategist at SMART Technologies, “Providing consistent structure and routines helps students know what to expect. EdTech can facilitate this by offering clear access to schedules, visual scaffolding, and easy review of prior learning.”
- Shifting from behavior-based approaches to strength-based support: Traditional behavior management strategies often isolate neurodivergent learners. Instead, focusing on their strengths—such as creativity, problem-solving, and unique perspectives—empowers them to succeed.
Harnessing Technology to Support Neurodivergent Learners
Executive functioning challenges—like organizing tasks, managing time, and maintaining focus—are common among neurodivergent learners. EdTech can play a pivotal role in supporting these students. Astle emphasizes the importance of using digital tools like graphic organizers, chunking information, and providing visual aids alongside text.
“Exposure to a variety of tools allows students to identify what works best for their unique needs,” says Astle. “This skill extends beyond the classroom, teaching them problem-solving strategies they can use throughout their lives.”
For example, tools like Microsoft’s Immersive Reader allow students to choose between reading or listening to content, adjusting the speed and language to suit their preferences. Such tools promote autonomy, ensuring learners engage with the material in ways that align with their strengths.
Building Inclusive Learning Cultures
Creating an inclusive classroom culture is as crucial as adopting the right tools. Neurodivergent students often feel isolated when singled out for using assistive technology. To counter this, educators can normalize the use of accessibility features for all students.
“When everyone has access to flexible learning options, no one feels singled out,” Astle explains. “Something as simple as selecting a larger mouse icon or switching to a high-contrast layout can make a world of difference.”
Additionally, grading group work contributions individually can reduce anxiety for students who are uncomfortable working in groups. Lumio’s collaborative digital workspaces allow students to contribute to projects without needing to be in the same physical space, making group work more accessible.
The Role of Self-Directed Care in Lifelong Success
While inclusive education is vital, the transition from school to adulthood often presents new challenges for neurodivergent individuals. Self-directed care, a model supported by Medicaid, empowers individuals to manage their long-term care by hiring caregivers they know and trust.
Maria Perrin, President of PPL, a Medicaid financial management services provider, explains: “Self-directed care allows participants—or their authorized representative—to recruit, hire, and supervise a caregiver they trust. This caregiver can be a family member, friend, or community member.”
Self-directed care offers several advantages:
- Personalized Support: Plans are tailored to each individual’s unique needs, whether that includes assistance with daily living tasks, transportation to appointments, or support for employment.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Participants can choose caregivers who share their language, culture, and values, improving both trust and outcomes.
- Continuity of Care: Unlike traditional homecare agencies, which may send different staff members, self-direction ensures consistency, reducing stress for both individuals and their families.
“Qualified support is hard to find, especially in rural areas,” says Perrin. “Self-direction provides a lifeline by allowing individuals to hire someone locally whom they already know and trust.”
Bridging the Gap Between School and Adulthood
The transition from school to adulthood can be particularly challenging for neurodivergent individuals. Many states offer self-direction programs to support this transition, providing services like employment support, personal care, and homemaking assistance.
“Consumer direction can be an excellent option for supporting independence as young adults transition into adulthood,” Perrin notes. “Programs like those offered by California’s Regional Centers are particularly effective due to their person-centered approach.”
By equipping students with executive functioning tools, digital fluency, and self-advocacy skills during their school years, educators can prepare them for success in adulthood. This includes not only employment but also independent living and community participation.
Empowering Teachers With The Right Training
To create truly inclusive classrooms, educators need the right training. Traditional teacher education often lacks a deep understanding of neurodivergent conditions and how to support them effectively. Professional development grounded in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles can bridge this gap.
“Many neurodivergent individuals don’t have a formal diagnosis,” Astle points out. “That’s why teachers must design lessons that inherently support diverse learning needs.”
The University of Melbourne’s 36 recommendations provide a concrete roadmap for inclusive lesson design, connecting UDL practices with edtech tools that support them. These strategies benefit not only neurodivergent students but all learners, creating a more equitable classroom environment.
Empowering Neurodivergent Learners
Empowering neurodivergent learners starts with recognizing their potential rather than focusing on perceived deficits. Astle shares a personal example: “My daughter has dyscalculia, which makes counting, recalling math facts, and judging time difficult. Before her diagnosis, she often felt like she was disappointing her teachers and had no path to success. But once she understood her brain worked differently and learned to use supportive tools, her confidence blossomed.”
This shift from deficit-based to strength-based support can transform outcomes. Research shows that neurodivergent individuals bring unique strengths to the workplace, boosting productivity and innovation. By fostering these strengths from an early age, schools can prepare students to excel not only academically but also professionally.
A Collaborative Path Forward
The best path forward requires a collaborative effort between schools, care systems, families, and communities. By adopting inclusive teaching practices, leveraging edtech tools, and supporting self-directed care, we can create environments where all learners thrive.
“Health disparities for neurodivergent individuals stem from rigid systems that fail to accommodate differences,” Perrin concludes. “Better outcomes require flexibility, education, and a commitment to recognizing, celebrating, and supporting each individual’s unique contributions.”
Through inclusive education and person-centered care, we can move beyond mere accommodation and toward true empowerment—unlocking the potential of neurodivergent individuals to lead fulfilling, successful lives.