Landmark College (LC) is one of just two colleges in the U.S. that focuses exclusively on serving students who learn differently, including students with learning disabilities such as dyslexia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and/or autism, collectively referred to as neurodiverse students. At LC, neurodiversity is used as a term of empowerment rather than as a diagnosis or disorder. Historically, neurodiverse students are severely underrepresented in STEM fields, representing only about 2% of STEM professionals. In 2020, LC established a new four-year BS in the life sciences, on top of an existing life sciences AD. This talk explores some of the strategies used at LC to help diverse learners succeed in Chemistry, including hands-on atomic models and other learning while doing activities. In addition, we will discuss programs that enable students to succeed both in and outside of the classroom, including the AIE-STEM mentor program and research-based summer internships. (NSF DUE S-STEM Award # 1643326)
Inclusion in Science Learning a New Direction, conference on disability and STEM