Monaliza Maximo CHIAN
Neurodiversity was coined by sociologist Judy Singer and journalist Harvey Blume (Dwyer, 2022; Ellis et al., 2023) in the late 1990s to advocate the need to recognise different diversities, including neurological variations. Neurodiversity, they argue, is as essential as biodiversity to the sustainability of the human race (Blume, 1998; Singer, 2023). Without a formal definition, its conceptualisation has been evolving, causing controversies, confusion, and criticism (de Houting, 2019; Dwyer, 2022). It has been referred to as a paradigm, framework, movement, and approach(es) (Dwyer, 2022; Planet Neurodivergent, 2021). Singer (2023) explains that the term "neurodiversity" was used to specifically shed light on the viable variabilities of human cognition, emphasising an individual's uniqueness with strengths and needs. In its simplest term, neurodiversity refers to cognitive differences (Ellis et al., 2023), neurological differences (Singer, 2023) or the existence of "diverse minds and brains" (Dwyer, 2022, p.74; Planet Neurodivergent, 2021, Sec 2, para 1). It aims to dismantle the deficit-focus on diversity and encourage embracing different ways of being, thinking, and (inter)acting in the world.
The emergence of neurodiversity prompted (re)viewing differences within the diversity, equity, and inclusivity (DEI) framework. Adopting an "understanding that neurological differences are to be honoured and respected just like any other human variation, including diversity in race, ethnicity among others" (Armstrong, 2017, Sec 2, para1) can catalyse in creating a more inclusive society that values individual differences. However, the variations in individuals' social interaction, learning processes, and other neurological functions can be challenging to decipher, leading to the underrepresentation of neurodiversity within the DEI framework (OECD, 2017). Thus, it is exigent for education systems to implement inclusive education and innovative curricula, including brain-based learning, neuroplasticity, and a growth mindset to support all learners (OECD, 2017).
Influenced by the neurodiversity approach, strength-based, multi-sensory, and multimodal learning are becoming standard classroom practices (e.g., Armstrong, 2017; Rentenbach et al., 2017). The support towards inclusive education, whereby identified students with specific learning difficulties are included in the mainstream classroom, is increasing. Inclusive education can be the conduit to advancing the knowledge about neurodiversity while fostering peer interactions and friendships. However, researchers implore clear understanding of the differences between inclusive education and neurodiversity (e.g., Armstrong 2017), despite the common goal of providing all students with equitable access to education.
Proponents of neurodiversity advocate for a social model of disability, challenging the medical model of disability, the dominant approach in schools. The students are diagnosed and given labels of "disorders" and "deficits", exacerbating their perceived inferiority. The social model recognises spectra of neurologically based conditions, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, Tourette syndrome, and other specific learning differences. It promotes acceptance of neurological differences as natural human variations rather than disorders to be cured or eradicated (Shmulsky et al., 2022). It encourages creating learning environments responsive to the physical, social, and emotional needs of neurodiverse communities.
Below are some relevant and timely resources that raise issues, considerations, and challenges as we understand the concept of neurodiversity leading to sustaining and nurturing all learners.
References
Armstrong, T. (2017, April 1). Neurodiversity: The future of special education? EL Magazine, 74(7).
Blume, H. (1998, September). Neurodiversity: On the neurological underpinnings of geekdom. The Atlantic Monthly.
den Houting, J. (2019). Neurodiversity: An insider’s perspective. Autism, 23(2), 271-273.
Ellis, P. Kirby, A., & Osborne, A. (2023). Neurodiversity and education. Sage.
Planet Neurodivergent. (2021).
Singer, J. (2023, March 14). How not to define neurodiversity. Reflections on Neurodiversity.

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School Examples and Resources
English School Foundations: Jockey Club Sara Roe School. (n.d.). Pathways.
Sense: Integrated Education and Special Education Information Online.
The Hong Kong Society for the Deaf. (n.d.). Inclusive education support service.
Internet Resources
Websites
Neurodiversity Hub. (n.d.). Neurodiversity and universal design: Primary and secondary schools.
Singer, J. (n.d.). Neurodiversity: Definition and discussion. Reflections on Neurodiversity.
Stanford Medicine. (n.d.). Stanford Neurodiversity Project: Awareness and education.
UNICEF. (n.d.). Inclusive education.
YouTube Videos
Aucademy. (2020, August 16). Neurodiversity inclusive teaching.
The Education Hub. (2022, August 3). Neurodiversity in education.
Twinkl Educational Publishing. (2022, March 25). What is Neurodiversity? A quick guide to neurodiversity for educators.
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