Unique Potential and Challenges of Students with ADHD in Engineering Programs | The American Society of Engineering Education Annual Conference, New Orleans, LA, United States
“A critical need exists in engineering education to draw on the non-traditional divergent thinking and risk- taking necessary for making radical technological breakthroughs. Literature suggests that individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) characteristics demonstrate unparalleled creativity and risk-taking potential. While this group of students may offer significant benefits to the advancement of the nation, they are currently significantly underrepresented in engineering programs because of the major academic and emotional challenges that the rigidly structured engineering programs impose on them. Funded by the Division of Engineering Education and Centers of the National Science Foundation, this study is aimed at understanding creative potential and challenges of engineering students with ADHD characteristics.”
Institute of Engineering and Technology
Guest blog: Embracing Neurodiversity in Engineering: A path to better understanding
https://epc.ac.uk/article/enbracing-neurodiversity-in-engineering-a-path-to-better-understanding/
“So, do we know how many neurodiverse students we have on engineering courses?
No, we don’t. We do know that the prevalence of each of these conditions in the general population varies up to about 10%. Some are more frequent than others, and overall – combined – around 15-20% of adults are thought to be what we would call neurodiverse. However, HE students are not the general population. And the university student population – across all subjects – shows, for example, elevated levels of ADHD and autism – 15% vs a general population level of maybe 5%.”
University of Michigan
ADHD in engineering: Improving education for neurodiverse college STEM students
AEMT is The Association of Electrical and Mechanical Trades
NEURODIVERGENCE IN ENGINEERING
https://www.theaemt.com/resource/neurodivergence-in-engineering.html
“Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodivergent condition that affects a significant number of people in the UK. Engineers with ADHD tend to be highly creative, innovative, and able to think outside the box – qualities that can drive your team to new heights. They often thrive in dynamic environments, bringing a unique perspective that can lead to breakthroughs in complex engineering problems. Their intuitive understanding and enthusiasm can stimulate a more vibrant and productive work setting. ADHD is also characterised by symptoms like impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity.
To fully leverage these strengths, it’s critical to provide an ADHD-friendly work environment. This may involve a range of reasonable adjustments – such as allowing flexible working hours, providing quiet spaces for concentrated work, and using project management tools to help organise tasks.”
