Supporting Neurodiversity: Effective Teaching Strategies for Nursing Students

Neurodiversity is an umbrella term that describes a wide range of variation in cognition, learning, and behaviors. Neurodiversity impacts approximately 16% to 18% of undergraduate students across all disciplines. Educators have moderate knowledge about neurodiversity but require further guidance on how to foster educational success in this group of students with unique strengths and challenges. Current literature was reviewed to determine best practices in fostering teaching strategies that are inclusive and engaging for neurodivergent students. Incorporation of the principles of Universal Design for Learning, strategies supportive of executive function, social-emotional learning, and a sensory-friendly environment improves learning outcomes of all students.