Encouraging Neuro-affirming Practice in Residential Colleges and Student Accommodation Settings
Tracks
Stream 2
| Tuesday, August 6, 2024 |
| 4:45 PM - 5:30 PM |
| Crystal 2 |
Overview
Briana Ellis, Janet Clarke Hall
Details
This workshop provides an introductory presentation on the key concepts of neurodiversity and neuro-affirming practice within the context of student accommodation settings. It will feature a case study of Janet Clarke Hall, highlighting opportunities and challenges identified by students and staff alike. The second half of the workshop invites a generative discussion and creative ideation session on how these concepts can be applied in our respective communities. Attendees will leave having identified at least one practical, achievable change they can make ahead of the 2025 academic year.
Speaker
Ms Briana Ellis
Dean Of Studies
Janet Clarke Hall
Encouraging Neuro-affirming Practice in Residential Colleges and Student Accommodation Settings
Abstract Overview
This workshop provides an introductory presentation on the key concepts of neurodiversity and neuro-affirming practice within the context of student accommodation settings. It will feature a case study of Janet Clarke Hall, highlighting opportunities and challenges identified by students and staff alike. The second half of the workshop invites a generative discussion and creative ideation session on how these concepts can be applied in our respective communities. Attendees will leave having identified at least one practical, achievable change they can make ahead of the 2025 academic year.
Neuro-affirming practice presents a powerful, strengths-based approach to better supporting the diverse range of students in our care. By (un)learning some of the societal norms and structures that assume neurotypical people as the ‘default’ or ‘correct’ neurotype, we can begin to look at our student accommodation settings and cultures with fresh perspectives. This includes critiquing some of the negative stereotypes and stigma faced by neurodivergent students as well as some of our approaches to events and communication.
Neurodivergent students are more likely to report positive educational experiences when there are specific support programs available, and when staff have high levels of literacy related to neurodiversity (Wyatt et al. 2023). We already know that residential communities are uniquely positioned to have a transformational impact on the lives of young people. As educators and wellbeing staff, our mission must be to ensure this is true for all students.
Universities and graduate employers are increasingly aware of neuro-affirming practice, supporting neurodivergent students while recognising their capacity for intuitive problem solving, creativity and unique perspectives. By adopting and further aligning neuro-affirming practices, residential colleges and student accommodation settings will be contributing to broader transformative culture change that celebrates inclusivity and diversity.
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Workshop Format:
Presentation (15mins)
Q&A (5mins)
Creative Ideation & Group Debrief (25mins)
Neuro-affirming practice presents a powerful, strengths-based approach to better supporting the diverse range of students in our care. By (un)learning some of the societal norms and structures that assume neurotypical people as the ‘default’ or ‘correct’ neurotype, we can begin to look at our student accommodation settings and cultures with fresh perspectives. This includes critiquing some of the negative stereotypes and stigma faced by neurodivergent students as well as some of our approaches to events and communication.
Neurodivergent students are more likely to report positive educational experiences when there are specific support programs available, and when staff have high levels of literacy related to neurodiversity (Wyatt et al. 2023). We already know that residential communities are uniquely positioned to have a transformational impact on the lives of young people. As educators and wellbeing staff, our mission must be to ensure this is true for all students.
Universities and graduate employers are increasingly aware of neuro-affirming practice, supporting neurodivergent students while recognising their capacity for intuitive problem solving, creativity and unique perspectives. By adopting and further aligning neuro-affirming practices, residential colleges and student accommodation settings will be contributing to broader transformative culture change that celebrates inclusivity and diversity.
***
Workshop Format:
Presentation (15mins)
Q&A (5mins)
Creative Ideation & Group Debrief (25mins)
Biography
Briana is the Dean of Studies at Janet Clarke Hall and has over ten years of experience living and working in the Melbourne Colleges. She graduated from the University of Melbourne with a BA (Honours) in Anthropology, U21 Diploma in Global Issues, and an Executive Master of Arts. Briana is passionate about supporting young people as they navigate university life. She is now completing her Master of Education part-time with a particular interest in neurodiversity. Before moving to JCH, Briana was a student and staff member at Whitley College and then the Intercollegiate Marketing Officer. Briana has past experience leading a national food literacy not-for-profit for young people and is most joyful sharing good food with good company.
