Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a disorder that affects a student’s executive functioning. ADHD affects many students by presenting them with difficulties such as staying focused, paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors or being overly active. Common symptoms of ADHD may include, difficulty with focus and concentration, distractibility, impulsive or unplanned reactions to environmental stimuli, difficulty maintaining regular schedules, and procrastination.

Considerations and instructional strategies:
  • Include the approved disability accommodation statement in the course syllabus. Invite students to contact you if they need disability-related accommodations.
  • Provide clear and concise instructions.
  • Incorporate visual aids and multiple teaching methods including visual, auditory, and hands-on approaches.
  • Create an outline for each class session including important takeaways.
  • Allow for time for clarification of essential information and/or directions.
  • Break large amounts of information or instructions into smaller segments. Review previous lessons and summarize periodically.
  • Help students break down large assignments into smaller, more manageable parts.
  • Allow for a short break during long class sessions.
  • When in doubt about how best to assist your student, ask them. Remember that confidentiality is important; therefore, it is best to have the conversation in private (e.g. during your office hours).
Accommodations may include, but are not limited to:
  • Testing accommodations: extended time, reduced distraction testing environment
  • Priority seating
  • A written supplement to oral instructions, assignments, due dates, and other directions
  • Permission to use tape-recorders and/or laptop computers for note-taking
  • Note-taking assistance
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