Before the workshop, take a moment to learn about the students we're designing for. This page will help you understand their experiences.
As you explore, keep these questions in mind. They will help you design better solutions.
What challenges are students facing?
What does their daily life look like as they deal with this?
What does research say about how we can help?
Reading assignments take 3-4 times longer than other students. Timed exams feel impossible. The student falls behind, not because they don't understand the ideas, but because the format doesn't work for them.
They feel exhausted and frustrated. They may hide their struggles from classmates. They wonder: "Am I smart enough for this?" They work twice as hard but get lower grades. Some give up on subjects they love.
Text-to-speech tools, audiobooks, and extended test time help significantly. When students get materials in accessible formats, they often perform as well as their peers. Early intervention and self-advocacy skills matter.
"Learning differences" is an umbrella term. It includes many ways that people learn differently. Here are some common ones:
Every student is different. Two students with dyslexia may have very different experiences. Labels help us understand, but the individual always matters most.
Watch or read 1-2 of these to deepen your understanding. Choose what interests you.
Auston Stamm shares his experience as a student with a learning disability
Lucas Nadolskis on the daily reality of learning differences
Why format matters as much as content
How new technology is creating new possibilities
A perspective on accessibility gaps in digital learning
An example of AI designed for neurodivergent learners
In the workshop, you'll work with others to design solutions for students with learning differences. The more you understand their experience, the better you can help.