1st Edition
Reaching and Teaching Neurodivergent Learners in STEM Strategies for Embracing Uniquely Talented Problem Solvers
Providing salient stories and practical strategies, this book empowers educators to embrace the unique talents of neurodivergent learners in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). An exploration of the exciting opportunities neurodiversity presents to build an innovative workforce is grounded in a large body of research from psychology, neuroscience, and education.
Author Jodi Asbell-Clarke presents individual examples of neurodivergent journeys in STEM to establish evidence-based connections between neurodiversity and the types of innovative problem-solving skills needed in today’s workforce. The featured stories come directly from the author’s many years in inclusive classrooms with STEM teachers along with interviews from many neurodivergent professionals in STEM. Teachers will learn how to embrace the unique brilliance and potential of the neurodivergent learners in their classroom, working against historic marginalization and deficit-based perspectives of neurodiversity within the education system.
Featuring illustrations of classroom-designed tools and materials alongside basic strategies to support executive function and emotion in learning, this book will help you nurture the talents of your neurodivergent learners and recognize their unique potential within STEM. Ideal for K-12 classroom teachers, special educators, learning specialists, psychologists, and school administrators.
1. Introduction 2. Neurodiversity—The Words We Use 3. Neurodiversity—The Competitive Advantage 4. Learning in the Brain 5. Learning in the Classroom 6. The Role of Emotion in Learning 7. Extraordinary Learners 8. Neurodiversity and Collaboration 9. Inclusive STEM Teaching 10. Strategies for Inclusion—Project-Based Learning 11. Strategies for Inclusion—Game-based Learning 12. Strategies for Inclusion—Computational Thinking 13. Neurodiversity in STEM—The Actions We Take
Biography
Jodi Asbell-Clarke is a Senior Leader at the Center for Science Teaching and Learning at TERC, a nonprofit research and development firm focusing on innovative STEM education. She holds a PhD in education and was formerly a computer programmer and a physics and astrophysics teacher at University High School at the University of Illinois, USA.
"Imagine a world where the unique STEM-related talents of neurodivergent individuals are cultivated to grow a dynamic, innovative workforce. In her groundbreaking work, Jodi Asbell-Clarke presents an empowering roadmap for educators to embrace and nurture these talents, instead of perpetuating shame and pity".
—Professor Sara Seager, Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
"Neurodivergent Learners in STEM" is an empowering guide for educators to create inclusive learning environments, expertly navigating the intersection of STEM education and neurodiversity and providing practical strategies to unlock the potential of neurodivergent learners."
—Matthew Farber, author of Gaming SEL: Games as Transformational to Social and Emotional Learning
"Reaching and Teaching Neurodivergent Learners in STEM is an important book for all educators. It encourages us to look at all students as having huge potential. Don’t leave behind students who think differently. They may be the leaders of their generation."
—Nadine Bonda, PhD, former Superintendent
