Neurodiversity refers to the idea that learning differences and disabilities result from natural variations in how the human brain functions. People may learn differently, but learning itself is a social construct. Someone who doesn’t adapt to educational norms isn’t flawed or in need of treatment—they should be encouraged to learn in ways that build on their unique strengths.
The term is often applied to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, but also includes conditions like ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia. Using the term neurodiversity emphasizes that there is no single “normal,” only differences that should be understood and respected. It is not a medical term and was coined in 1998 by sociologist Judy Singer.
