Studying with AD(H)D

People with AD(H)D often react more quickly to stimuli such as impulses, moods and events. As a consequence you can be easily distracted and it is difficult to concentrate (for long periods of time) (attention problems). Completing tasks, separating main and secondary issues, planning and organizing are often challenging. These difficulties often become more apparent when there are changes in the environment and new demands. For example, when transitioning from high school to university. 

What can you do yourself?

Every student is different and has different support needs. It is important to explore the options and find what works for you. Discuss with a student counselor, your academic advisor or mentor in your program what support you need to study well with your AD(H)D and ask them about the possibilities available to you. Bear in mind that not everything is possible. 

Do you want to learn more about the difficulties that may come with AD(H)D or do you want to discover various tips? Check out this useful link about (studying with) AD(H)D.

Think about the deadlines!

What support is available at the TU/e?

If there are circumstances that affect your studies, you can contact the TU/e student guidance staff for guidance and facilities. They think along with you and can help you eliminate any obstacles as much as possible and prevent or limit study delays due to your circumstances as much as possible.

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Resources for you

  • Microsoft To Do - a useful method for planning and being more structured. 
  • Make use of a noise cancelling headphone against distractions.  
  • Make use of websites that can block social media (facebook/instagram/twitter etc.) and other websites to prevent distractions. For example, Freedom. 
  • Employ the Pomodoro technique to be more productive. Pomodoro is a time management technique. 
  • Online mind map software for creating structured summaries and tool in a brainstorming session: Mindmeister and bubbl.us.
  • Timetimer that allows students to force themselves to spend a certain amount of time doing something. Also available as an app on smartphone. 

Information for teachers

  • The website ECIO.nl offers handy tools and publications that teachers can consult and use directly. The information card for support in AD(H)D provides insight into barriers that students may face. It also includes tips for education professionals who can help students with AD(H)D.
  • Consider having a conversation with the student about their needs within your curriculum. Here are some pointers on how to respond to signals from a student. In addition, you can consult the student’s academic advisor. It is always a good idea to refer the student to the academic advisor for the disclosure of personal circumstances. If tutors support you in providing education, make agreements with them on how they can raise any concerns they may have about a student. 
  • Learn more about teaching techniques that can help provide a successful learning environment for adults with AD(H)D.
  • Check if your online material is accessible for all your students. In Canvas, you can use Immersive Reader for that.