Learning Resources

Responsive Design

Planning Living Spaces for Neurodiverse Students

By: James A. Baumann, ACUHO-I | Shannon Dowling, AIA, Ayers Saint Gross | Mary Elliott, EdD, Colorado School of Mines

We invite you to join a discussion on how schools can thrive by taking this inclusive approach to planning and development.

Abstract: With increasing numbers of neurodivergent students on college campuses, intentional design and planning of spaces can better accommodate their needs and improve the experience for all students. We invite you to join a discussion on how schools can thrive by taking this inclusive approach to planning and development.

Institutions Mentioned: Colorado School of Mines
Planning Types: Campus Planning
Tags: Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Facilities Design, Facilities Planning, Student Housing

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Responsive Design

Purposeful Planning Can Be Inclusive for Neurodiverse Students and Support the Well-Being of All

By: Shannon Dowling, MArch, AIA, LEEDAP, and James A. Baumann, MA

By incorporating student choice and voice into the planning and allowing autonomy in scale and adaptability, campuses can provide the environment where all students are most comfortable participating in any given activity.

From Volume 52 Number 1 | October–December 2023

Abstract: Research has shown that neurodivergent students report a lower sense of belonging and are less likely to feel welcomed, accepted, and like they belong on campus than their neurotypical peers. Considering this, a host of barriers to participation and belonging can be in effect across a college or university. While there are a few campus offices and departments that might address different aspects of these concerns independently, the most successful results occur when these groups—along with outside contractors such as design partners—work in strategic symphony.

This article is co-presented by the Association of College & University Housing Officers – International (ACUHO-I) and the Society for College and University Planning (SCUP) and is being published in publications for both organizations.

Institutions Mentioned: Colorado School of Mines, Denison University, Lewis & Clark College, Montana State University, Ohio State University-Main Campus, The State University of New York at Albany, University of Georgia, University of Oregon
Planning Types: Campus Planning
Tags: Facilities Design, Facilities Planning, Health and Wellness, Informal Learning Environments, Learning Environments, Placemaking, Student Housing

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