TE7106 - Understanding and Embracing Neurodiversity

What will I learn on this module?

This module aims to engage you in a critical appreciation of the complexities of neurodiversity through critical exploration of related theories, literature and legislation, such as the Social Model of Disability.

You will learn about and evaluate concepts used to critique the challenges experienced by neurodiverse people within education, workplace and wider communities, to reduce exclusionary practices and improve inclusivity for all.

How will I learn on this module?

A variety of teaching and learning strategies will be utilised within this module that will reflect your professional development. These will include: lectures, seminars, group work, directed learning, independent learning, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL).
Topic overviews and key concepts will be addressed in lectures, seminars and workshops where active and collaborative learning will be encouraged to draw on the range of experience of the group allowing you to contextualise new ideas within your learning experience. There are no examinations, the module is assessed through a written assignment related to the module.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

Support will include personal and email access to tutor throughout the semester. Individual written feedback on assignment.
Small group seminars and tutorials.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
KU1: Identify and critically analyse key issues related to neurodiversity.
KU2: Discuss by critically comparing and contrasting existing theories and perspectives around neurodiversity.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
IPSA1: Demonstrate an understanding of neurodiversity and the Social Model of Disability.
IPSA2: Critically consider the implications of how the Social Model of Disability impacts neurodivergent people.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
PVA1: Enhance communication skills both through your summative written work and your formative presentation
PVA2: Develop independent learning skills which are required for their continuing development as a practitioner
PVA3: Develop the skills required to undertake research in a variety of contexts.

How will I be assessed?

Formative Assessment
A presentation on an aspect of neurodiversity explored within the module content (10 minutes).
MLO: KU1, IPSA 1-2; PVA 1-2

Feedback
Verbal feedback will be given by tutor and peers after the presentation

Summative Assessment
You will submit a creative portfolio, using a case study approach, which will critically analyse a key aspect of your choice around neurodiversity underpinned by the Social Model of Disability, related theories/literature and legislation.
MLOs KU1 & 2; IPSA 1 & 2, PVA1 -3)
(4500 words)

Feedback
Feedback will be written and graded against the criteria.

Pre-requisite(s)

None

Co-requisite(s)

None

Module abstract

The social model of disability is one of the main values underpinning the module. When learning about neurodiversity, we are referring to the wide range found in human cognitive function. The human species is complex and neurodiverse. This means that we all have our idiosyncratic characteristics in how we learn, think and interact with others. These are often shaped, not just by our neurology but also from our life experiences and cultures. Those who neurologically diverge significantly from the typical majority in reaching our developmental milestones are the people we are referring to as neurodivergent. The term neurodivergent is inclusive of diagnosis such as autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia/developmental co-ordination disorder, Tourette’s Syndrome and mental ill- health and much more. In this module, you will learn about:
• Neurodiversity and the social model of neurodiversity
• Neurodivergent matters
• Understanding neurodiversity
• Defining neurodiversity
• Neurodiversity and the medical model
• Critical; perspectives around neurodiversity across the life span
• The voice of neurodivergent people (a lived experience approach)
• Challenging perspectives
• Aspirations for the future

Assessment for this module will be a written assignment which will critically analyse key aspects of neurodiversity underpinned by the Social Model of Disability, related theories/literature and legislation.

Course info

Credits 30

Level of Study Postgraduate

Mode of Study 20 months Full Time

School Communities and Education

Location Coach Lane Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start January 2027

Fee Information

Module Information

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