Author: Grace Wiggall, UG student in Department of Earth Science and Engineering
If you are a staff member entering a teaching space (e.g., lecture theatre, seminar room), what is your priority? The first thing that comes to mind is that the projector works so that learning content can be presented. But have you thought any further than that? About the finer details, the ones you may not consider. Factors that can make everyone’s learning experience far more comfortable, especially neurodivergent students.
Neurodivergence describes individuals whose neurological functioning is viewed as atypical. Neurodivergent people all have their own unique ways of experiencing the world. One person may have a hypersensitivity to stimuli, slower processing speed, and struggle with crowded rooms, while another person could have difficulty concentrating for long periods of time and struggle with organisational skills. Teaching practices and spaces aren’t always suitable learning environments for all, but by taking some simple steps, staff can make a huge difference. I am passionate about all things related to inclusivity and would like to raise awareness around inclusivity of teaching spaces, especially the importance of suitable lighting, through this article.