Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
This section of the Inclusive Virginia Adult Education website provides information, instructional strategies, resources, and accommodations for adult education practitioners on serving adult learners with ADHD.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a biologically based neurological condition and is one of the most common mental conditions affecting children. ADHD also affects many adults. Symptoms of ADHD can vary from person to person and can include inattention (not being able to keep focus), hyperactivity (excess movement that is not fitting to the setting) and impulsivity (hasty acts that occur in the moment without thought) (American Psychiatric Association).
Additional Information
Instructional Strategies
- Design documents that are visually appealing and interactive:
- Provide assignment objectives in short sentences at the top.
- Use text boxes and bullet points that provide essential information.
- Blank lines provide opportunities for students to fill-in information during class.
- Use color-enhanced documents and illustrations with hierarchical organization.
- Use “talking” headings; for example, “lists, bullets and spaces” is more descriptive than “organization.”
- Provide frequent breaks in instruction which allow learners to engage in an activity.
- Chunk assignments into smaller sections with clear instructions for each task.
- Limit distractions in and around the learning environment (e.g., noises, too many visuals on the wall).
- Help learners develop an organizational strategy that works for them.
Teaching Techniques for ADHD Adults provides some techniques for teachers and tutors that can help provide a successful learning environment for adults with ADHD.