ERASMUS+ Course
Course Overview
This course focuses on understanding and supporting neurodiverse learners—primarily students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)—while acknowledging related neurodevelopmental differences (e.g., dyslexia, dyspraxia) within the broader context of Special Educational Needs (SEN). Participants will gain a clear overview of neurodiversity across three levels—the narrow definition (ASD and ADHD), the medium range (key related neurodevelopmental differences), and the broader usage of the term—while keeping the course focused on what is most relevant and practical for teachers. They will learn how these profiles relate to other SEN categories and gain a practical set of strategies for inclusive teaching. Designed for educators across subjects and levels, the course balances essential knowledge with practical strategies that help teachers manage classrooms effectively and create supportive, structured, and accessible learning environments. Through hands-on activities, reflection, and real-life examples, participants leave with concrete tools, increased confidence, and clear action plans for supporting neurodiverse students.
Learning Outcomes
- •Develop a solid understanding of ASD and ADHD in educational settings, including the difference between neurodivergent and neurotypical and its challenges and advantages.
- •Work with a variety of special needs students and implement evidence-based strategies for inclusive teaching.
- •Practice applying tools and strategies during the course sessions to address challenging behaviors and manage classroom dynamics effectively while reducing stress.
- •Design inclusive and neurodivergent-friendly classroom activities that support diverse learners, using digital and creative tools to enhance engagement and accessibility.
- •Collaborate with families, assistants, and specialists to foster positive learning environments for neurodiverse students.
- •Create action plans tailored to your own teaching context.
Teaching & Learning Methods
All our methods are designed to be highly interactive and hands-on, ensuring a practical and engaging learning experience.
- •Active & Experiential: Learning happens through practical activities, group challenges, and creative problem-solving rather than lectures.
- •Collaborative & Inclusive: We value teamwork, open discussion, and approaches that support every learner’s unique strengths and needs.
- •Innovative & Engaging: Modern tools, playful strategies, and real-world tasks make learning dynamic and inspiring.
- •Reflective & Transformative: Each experience encourages participants to reflect, share insights, and apply new ideas in their own professional contexts.
EU Competence Frameworks
This course aligns with key EU competence frameworks:- •DigCompEdu: applying digital tools and assistive technology.
- •LifeComp: fostering empathy, resilience, and collaboration.
Erasmus+ Priorities
This course equips participants with skills that respond directly to key Erasmus+ priorities:- •Inclusion & Diversity: promoting full participation of neurodiverse learners.
- •Digital Transformation: using assistive technologies and digital resources to support learning.
- •Lifelong Learning & Resilience: equipping teachers with strategies to adapt to diverse classroom challenges.
COURSE MODULES & TENTATIVE SCHEDULE
Day 1 – Foundations of Special Needs in Education
Module 1 – Special needs in education and where neurodiversity fits.
Explore the various special needs in education and introduce the three levels of neurodiversity: the narrow level (ASD and ADHD), the functional medium level (related neurodevelopmental differences), and the broad societal use of the term. Understand how these fit into the wider SEN landscape.
Module 2 – Diving into Neurodiversity: Myths, Misconceptions, and Classroom Realities
Debunk common myths and build a realistic understanding of neurodiversity in everyday classrooms, clarifying the difference between the narrow and medium definitions while keeping the focus on ASD and ADHD as the core practical categories for teaching.
Orientation Walk with a Local Guide (optional, complimentary)
A short post-class city walk for orientation and networking. Voluntary, no fee, separate from the course, and not counted in Erasmus+ hours or outcomes.
Day 2 – Strategies for Inclusion
Module 3 – Classroom management for challenging behaviours
Learn practical strategies for anticipating, preventing, and responding to challenging behaviours in an inclusive way.
Module 4 – Structuring learning environments & routines
Discover how to create clear, predictable routines and supportive classroom environments that benefit all learners.
Day 3 – Teaching Tools & Approaches
Module 5 – Differentiated instruction and activity design
Explore ways to adapt instruction and design activities that meet diverse learning needs and strengths.
Module 6 – Creative and sensory-friendly learning activities
Develop engaging, sensory-friendly activities that encourage participation and support self-regulation.
Day 4 – Collaboration & Support
Module 7 – Working with parents, assistants, and specialists
Learn how to build effective partnerships with families, teaching assistants, and specialists to support students.
Module 8 – Using digital tools and assistive technology
Discover practical digital tools and assistive technologies that enhance learning and accessibility for neurodiverse students.
Day 5 – Implementation & Reflection
Module 9 – Case studies & role-play scenarios
Apply your learning through interactive case studies and role-play activities that mirror real classroom situations.
Module 10 – Workshop: designing your own inclusion plan
Synthesize your knowledge by designing a practical inclusion plan tailored to your own teaching context.
Final Reflection
Action Plan • Certificates & Farewell