Week 1: What is neurodiversity?

Introduction

In this first week of the course, you will familiarise yourself with the key terminology and how this will be used throughout the course. Following this the concept of neurodiversity is explored including the potential strengths and challenges that may arise when working with neurodiverse athletes in a sport and exercise setting. You will be introduced to a range of neurodiverse conditions and the different models of neurodiversity and start to consider the importance of understanding how neurodiversity is viewed within society and the implications this may have on neurodiverse individuals. The power of the communication between a coach and neurodivergent athlete is examined, alongside the research linking neurodiversity and mental health.

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A graphic containing a number of heads in profile, showing their ‘brains’ which are all in different patterns and colours.

By the end of this week, you should be able to:

• explain the concept of neurodiversity and define a range of neurodiverse conditions
• understand what influences communication between individuals with different neurotypes
• describe the links between neurodiversity, mental health and wellbeing.