“There’s Only So Much the School Can Change About Itself … Before You Need to Change Something About Yourself”—a Qualitative Analysis of the Experiences of Neurodivergent Student Teachers

Abstract

Background: In Scotland, to become qualified to teach children in primary schools (aged 4-11 years), student educators must complete degree programs that include a combination of university- and school-based placement learning environments. Previous studies have examined the experiences of neurodivergent students in other professional degree programs, most notably in health care. Yet there is limited research considering the barriers and enablers for neurodivergent students in programs leading to careers in education. Methods: This study contributes to the evidence base by examining the experiences of neurodivergent student participants from two education studies programs run by one Scottish university: one including required professional placement experience in schools leading to professional teaching qualification status and the other a theory-based course with flexible community placement options. Nine neurodivergent students, all originally following the professional placement strand, participated in a semi-structured interview. Data analysis was led by a neurodivergent educator, using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: The resultant themes identified were named to reflect the lived experience of participants: Who we are matters; How we are matters; How we know matters; and What we need matters. Neurodivergent education students reported risk of withdrawal from and/or challenges within the professional strand program, particularly emphasized in relation to placements. They felt that they needed to navigate additional systemic barriers to reach the same result as neurotypical peers. Furthermore, they discussed how the accessibility and attitudes of others impact upon opportunities for disclosure, inclusion, and support. Our findings also suggest the possibility of an attitudinal hierarchy of neurodivergence acceptability occurring within educational environments. Conclusions: Neurodivergent students report a range of challenges when attempting to successfully complete education degree programs leading to the teaching profession. Our findings identify the need for greater advocacy, support, and inclusion of neurodivergent participation, which attends to the nuanced experiences that education students face.

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