Course Overview

Welcome to "Understanding and Identifying ADHD in the Education Setting" an insightful and practical course designed to equip educators with the knowledge and skills to support students with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is largely misunderstood, leading to misconceptions and stigmatisation. One prevalent misperception is the notion that ADHD is merely a result of laziness or lack of discipline. In reality, ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. The misconception that individuals with ADHD can control their behaviours contributes to a lack of empathy and support.

This course has been broken into two parts due to the extensive nature of the topic. This first course will provide information on how to identify students with ADHD; to also understand what ADHD is and how this condition affects student learning. Participants will also explore the cognitive and behavioural challenges that students with ADHD experience and what this means for classroom management. Also, participants will provide information and strategies for educators to support these students’ social and emotional well-being by building a positive learning environment. Finally, this course explores the vital collaboration between the school, parents or carers and other support services. 

Objectives/Goals

Participants will develop the ability to recognise signs and symptoms of ADHD in students, understanding the diverse presentations of the disorder

Participants will acquire a toolkit of evidence-based strategies to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment for students with ADHD.

Participants will develop an understanding of the emotional and behavioural challenges for students in the mainstream classroom. 

Participants will develop an understanding of the importance of collaboration with parents, carers and para-support personnel. 

Objectives:

• Understanding ADHD: Provide educators with a deep understanding of the nature, symptoms, and subtypes of ADHD, including its impact on learning and behaviour within the educational environment.
• Recognizing ADHD in Students: Enable teachers to identify potential signs and manifestations of ADHD in students, considering individual differences and diverse presentations.
• Differentiation and Inclusion: Equip educators with strategies for differentiating instruction and creating inclusive learning environments that accommodate the diverse needs and strengths of students with ADHD.
• Collaborative Partnerships: Foster collaboration between educators, parents, and relevant stakeholders to support students with ADHD effectively, promoting a holistic approach to their educational journey.
• Behaviour Management Techniques: Introduce evidence-based behaviour management techniques and classroom strategies tailored to address the specific needs and challenges associated with ADHD, fostering positive behavioural outcomes and academic success.
• Promoting Self-Regulation: Explore methods for promoting self-regulation skills and executive functioning abilities among students with ADHD, empowering them to manage impulsivity, attention, and organisation effectively.
• Supporting Emotional Well-being: Highlight the importance of addressing the emotional well-being and mental health of students with ADHD, providing teachers with tools and resources to foster resilience, self-esteem, and emotional regulation.
  

Goals:

• Enhanced Awareness and Knowledge: By the end of the course, participants will demonstrate a heightened awareness and understanding of ADHD, its neurodevelopmental underpinnings, and its implications for teaching and learning.
• Improved Identification and Intervention: Participants will be able to identify potential indicators of ADHD in students and implement targeted interventions and support strategies to address their academic, social, and emotional needs effectively.
• Effective Classroom Practices: Teachers will integrate evidence-based practices and accommodations into their instructional approaches, fostering a supportive and inclusive classroom environment conducive to the learning and success of students with ADHD.
• Strengthened Collaboration: Participants will engage in collaborative partnerships with parents, special education professionals, and other relevant stakeholders to develop comprehensive support plans and promote continuity of care for students with ADHD across home and school settings.
• Empowered Educators: By the conclusion of the course, educators will feel empowered and confident in their ability to recognise, understand, and support students with ADHD, contributing to their overall academic achievement, well-being, and long-term success.

In alignment with these objectives and goals, "Understanding and Identifying ADHD in the Educational Setting" aims to equip educators with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to create inclusive learning environments where every student can thrive, regardless of their unique learning profile or neurodevelopmental differences.

Sessions

Introduction & Overview 

Course Overview 

Professional Standards

Welcome to Country

Module One: Introduction to ADHD

Definition and Key Characteristics

Neurodevelopmental Basis of ADHD

Prevalence and Demographics

Myths and Realities (Common Challenges for the ADHD Student)

Positive Traits and Strengths

Impact on Academic Performance and Social Interactions

Module Two: Understanding Cognitive and Learning Challenges or ADHD

The Vital Role of Executive Function

Cognitive Processing Differences

The 'Dys' Family in Relation to ADHD

Comorbidity with Learning Disabilities

Module Three: Behavioural Characteristics of ADHD

Behaviour in the ADHD Student

Behavioral Management Approaches

Strategies for Managing Disruptive Behaviours

Module Four: Social and Emotional Implications

Social and Emotional Implications

Academic Achievement and ADHD

Coordinated Approaches to Support

Module Five: Collaboration with Parents and Support Teams

Building Positive Parent-Teacher Relationships

Home Support Strategies

Social Skills Development

Collaborative Learning Opportunities

Parent involvement in Classroom Strategies