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Neuroscience for Neurodiverse Learners (NNL)

Neuroscience for Neurodiverse Learners (NNL), provides hands-on experiences in neuroscience disciplines, networking opportunities, and resources to high school and early postsecondary students identified as neurodiverse learners—those with academic challenges related to conditions such as dyspraxia, dyslexia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyscalculia, autism spectrum disorder, and Tourette syndrome—and disseminates findings to teachers of courses that are related to neuroscience and, more broadly, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Led by the UW’s Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology (DO-IT) Center and Center for Neurotechnology (CNT), the goal of NNL is to enhance student interest in and skills to successfully pursue STEM fields, as well as empower educators to serve these students more effectively. Grounded in theory and research, the project takes a student-centered approach that embraces cutting-edge neuroscience, the social model of disability, social justice education, disability as a diversity issue, universal design, and a multi-faceted view of student engagement and retention.

Pillar 1: Innovative Use of Technologies in Learning and Teaching

Researchers at the UW’s Center for Neurotechnology, one of the project partners, are leaders in computational analysis, human-computer interfaces, wireless power, and other exciting innovations that have the potential to improve the lives of individuals who have been injured through accidents, stroke, or disease. These emerging technologies are incorporated into hands-on, inquiry-based activities and cooperative learning opportunities for neurodiverse students.

Pillar 2: Partnerships for Career and Workforce Preparation.

The NNL project is led by the UW’s Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology (DO-IT) Center and the Center for Neurotechnology (CNT). DO-IT has experience in developing hands-on programs for youth with disabilities, while the CNT boasts world-class research and a highly-rated, innovative neuroscience education program. The project incorporates cutting-edge neuroscience into activities designed to educate students about pursuing degrees and careers in neuroscience and other STEM fields.

Pillar 3: Strategies for Equity in STEM Education

NNL deploys key interventions for bringing students from underrepresented groups into STEM fields. These include hands-on experiences, work-based learning, research opportunities, real-world experiences, mentoring for students, and training for educators. Project interventions have been intentionally designed to address challenges often faced by neurodiverse STEM learners and workers. Participation in program activities encourages neurodiverse students to pursue neuroscience, and more broadly, STEM careers.
Student looks through a transparent depiction of brains.
Discipline(s)
Other
Target Gradespan(s)
High school (9-12)
Target Participant(s)
Participants with disabilities
Project Setting(s)
Informal Education
Category
Developing and Testing Innovations (DTI)
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2024 ONLINE PROGRAM

Visit the 2024 ITEST PI Meeting Online Program