Supporting Neurodivergent Learners in Higher Education by Applying the Assumptions of Andragogy
This publication is included in the Autistic Autism Scholarship Project. one author of this publication is identified as autistic in the project.
About the autistic author markerTaylor, A. & Coryell, J. E. (2025). Supporting Neurodivergent Learners in Higher Education by Applying the Assumptions of Andragogy. In Fostering a Community of Success for Neurodivergent Collegiate Students (pp. 35-70). IGI Global Scientific Publishing. https://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3693-8920-1.ch002 · ISBN : 9798369389201
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Abstract
This chapter explores how Malcolm Knowles' (1990) principles of andragogy can be effectively applied to support Neurodivergent students in higher education settings and demonstrates how andragogical strategies, focusing on the self-directed, experiential, and relevant learning needs of adults, can be adapted to create inclusive and supportive learning environments for Neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other cognitive variations. The objectives of the chapter are to highlight the unique needs of Neurodivergent learners, to show how andragogical principles can address these needs, and to provide practical recommendations for educators and institutions. Key arguments include the need for educators to reassess their current pedagogical assumptions and practices, the alignment between andragogical assumptions and Neurodivergent learners' needs, and the transformative potential of tailored instructional strategies for both learner and educator.
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