Academic Advising Seminars
What are they? Forums for discussing academic advising
Who’s invited? All faculty and staff (please spread the word)
Why attend? To network, share how-tos, and learn about advising resources
When and where? The first Wednesday of each month at 11:00 a.m. in Zoom. Please note: The first academic advising seminar for the 2024–2025 academic year will be held off-cycle on Thursday, October 31. The regular schedule of the first Wednesday of the month will begin in December.
2024–2025 Schedule
- Thursday, October 31, 11:00 a.m.
- Wednesday, December 4, 11:00 a.m.
- (No seminar in January 2025)
- Wednesday, February 5, 11:00 a.m.
- Wednesday, March 5, 11:00 a.m.
- Wednesday, April 2, 11:00 a.m.
Academic Advising Seminar, April 2nd 2025
Divergent Minds, Inspired Designs
Neurodivergent learners have unique challenges and needs when navigating learning
dynamics, from adapting to rigid academic structures to finding a sense of belonging in their
classrooms and communities. These needs are often not fully addressed due to a lack of
understanding and insufficient resources for educators, which can prevent them from reaching
their full potential. While traditional design models and accessibility practices can help
significantly, design models and frameworks crafted specifically for supporting neurodivergent
learners are still needed.
This session explores a new theoretical framework for understanding the impact of academic
support, personal belonging, and frequent barriers to a neurodivergent learner's success. It
explores the intersections between different levels of support and how they correlate to a
learner's sense of belonging and inclusion. By understanding this multi-tiered approach, higher
education professionals can more effectively align their instructional practices with learners'
needs and foster a more inclusive culture within the classroom.
This session will not be recorded.
Presented by Megan Kohler, MSIT, Assistant Teaching Professor & Learning Designer at the
John A. Dutton Institute for Teaching and Learning Excellence
Please review our Academic Advising Seminars Archive to view previous seminars. Many of these contain a recording of the presentation and additional notes and documentation.