Learning from students about
diversity in the experience of
engagement with learning
Neurodiversity and Learning research project undergraduate participants needed!
Inclusive education relies on understanding what effective engagement with learning means for each individual. This research project at the University of Cambridge Faculty of Education is using a new self-report measure of engagement with learning activities. The new quick, easy, flexible and intuitive research tool will help transform our understanding of students’ experience of their learning activities and help support inclusive teaching and learning in universities, colleges and schools.
Understanding neurodiversity and engagement is at the heart of this project. The study is currently open to all UK undergraduate students to share their experiences of learning activities. We’re particularly interested in hearing from autistic students and those with ADHD or anxiety.
Latest from the Project Blog
When does inspiration for education research come in cake form?
“It’s all about being different” In the Great British Bake Off, contestant Lizzie created an amazing cake that celebrated difference and was inspired by her experience of ADHD and dyslexia. In describing the cake, she explained “it’s all about being different” – expressed through a different way of using colour, pattern, texture. Importantly, it makesContinue reading “When does inspiration for education research come in cake form?”
Ways of thinking
For this project, we are taking a neurodiversity approach in which the ways of thinking associated with autism are explored as part of a naturally varying broader population. This means that we’re interested in a range of differences in the ways that students experience and think about their learning as well as the types of learning environment and activity that suit them best.
What does it mean to be an autistic student?
It’s common for students to explore an autism diagnosis whilst at university. This can be as a result of experiencing difficulties and being referred to university support services. Student can also become aware at university that their style of thinking and learning may align with the characteristics of autism without experiencing particular difficulties – by having more flexibility to explore their own preferences and by meeting other autistic students.
Learning Engagement 