Online instruction is a developing solution that provides greater understanding and deeper involvement for students with ADHD.
Online learning takes place over the internet, anytime, anyplace. The learner takes responsibility for success. Students with ADHD have to be extremely motivated to adapt to the unstructured environment.
Luckily there are several platforms to choose from, each with their own approach to learning materials. Many online learners read something like this Domestika review before taking a course so that they know if that brand of online learning will suit them.
Of course, not all students can choose their learning platform.
Rocking it with a grad student with ADHD…
Yea! Statistics. My favorite math of all time. Unfortunately the guy I’m coaching doesn’t think so.
His 3rd time taking the class really has him bummed out. His dream of becoming a counselor was slowly being dashed on the jagged rocks below. Here comes Wonder Woman.
Ok…look at the syllabus. Expository data analysis. Data mining. Nonparametric statistics. Say what? Start at the beginning: Algebra 1.
2nd consideration: Time management. Sync Google Calendar – Check. Pocket to organize documents – Check. Alarm clock – Check.
3rd consideration: Reading and writing. We love our cell phones – You find the app.
…You get the message.
Mentorship can provide the platform that facilitates learning. It can take place face-to-face or carried out remotely. The process focuses on drawing out what students with ADHD already know, instead of focusing on their deficiencies.
31% of US college students (over 6.1 million) have taken at least one class online. For credit are constrained by standardized curricula and curriculum. In contrast, non-credit classes focus on understanding.
While there are challenges that students with ADHD face in online courses, there are benefits as well.
- Work at their own pace.
- Overcome distractions (choose own environment).
- Receive more one-on-one attention.
- Allow anytime benefits (sleep, extended time, frequent breaks).
- Help with reading/writing.
Online instruction allows learning outside the structured classroom. This can be both a benefit, as well as a challenge for students with ADHD. Consider taking online courses for personal learning, building new skills. With guidance, modeling, and support, mentors introduce strategies for success.
“Our kids” struggle with traditional education (35% HS drop-out rate). Seek the “human touch” online with private feedback.
What are your experiences taking online classes?
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