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Neurodivergent students

Overview of autism

Autism can involve challenges with: 

  • Social interaction and communication. 
  • Restricted and repetitive interests.
  • Sensory overload. 
  • Anxiety and mental health.

There are also many strengths associated with autism, including: 

  • Deep focus and attention to detail. 
  • Good analytical skills and ability to spot patterns. 
  • Creative, innovative thinking. 
  • Integrity, determination and tolerance. 

Common challenges

Common challenges faced by students with autism include:

  • Learning information which is not explicitly taught.  
  • Transferring skills and knowledge from one situation to another.  
  • Picking up unwritten social rules when interacting with neurotypical tutors and peers. 
  • Difficulty interpreting ambiguous and open assignment briefs correctly. 
  • Uncertainty about how to plan studies or how long to spend on a given task. 
  • The social skills necessary for group work, such as turn taking and negotiation.  
  • Last minute changes to schedules or plans.  
  • Difficulty tolerating background noise, lighting, crowding and other sensory elements.  
  • High levels of anxiety.

More information about autism

 

Falmouth Exeter Plus: autism& uni toolkit - advice and information for autistic applicants and new students.

Strategies for autism

  • Create a structured routine which includes study time, breaks and essential tasks. Build in some gaps for times when you are tired or can't focus. Here are some study plan templates.
  • Use calendars, whiteboards and planners to keep you on track. Try Notion's calendar templates or a Trello board.
  • Break complex tasks into smaller chunks - Goblin Magic ToDo can help with this.
  • Use the Pomodoro method of working in short bursts to maximise concentration and motivation. Momentum Dash has a built-in Pomodoro timer as well as a site blocker and background music.
  • Use Assistive Technology to enhance your productivity.
  • See these free tools for organisation and planning.
  • Optimise your study space: desk, adjustable lighting, weighted blanket, aromatherapy, white noise - whatever works for you.
  • Wear noise-cancelling headphones, sunglasses or hats to reduce auditory and visual stimulation. (Loop ear plugs are loved by many.)
  • Carry a kit of comfort items and fidget/stim toys.
  • Wear soft, comfortable clothing.
  • Talk to your Accessibility adviser if feel that your reasonable adjustments are not being put in place.
  • Set realistic goals and reward yourself when you achieve them.
  • Engage in activities which you enjoy.
  • Understand your anxiety - see this Understanding Anxiety guide from Spectrum Gaming.
  • Try the Molehill Mountain app to track your worries and unlock tips to self-manage anxiety.
  • Limit your exposure to stressful news.
  • Practise self care and compassion.
  • Embrace routines and schedules which provide a sense of predictability.
  • Don't avoid stressful situations altogether: nudge yourself out of your comfort zone.
  • Practise relaxation, mindfulness and grounding exercises. 
  • Find quiet, comfortable spaces on campus where you can go if feeling overwhelmed. Both campuses have plenty of green space and each library has a sensory room.
  • Eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water.
  • Avoid caffeine and other stimulants.
  • Try to develop a healthy sleep routine. Read this sleep guide from Spectrum Gamers which is full of good advice and try the free NHS Sleepio app.
  • Do hobbies and creative or physical activities which suit your particular interests.
  • Read our autism&uni article on Healthy living.