Academics at the University of Plymouth have compiled a detailed guide encouraging organisations across the UK to follow their lead in fostering increased opportunities for neurodiverse and disabled engineering students.
A track record of success
Staff from the School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics and the Plymouth Institute of Education have been working together since 2022 on a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing young people's interest in engineering.
Those projects were conceived with around 21% of Plymouth students in the three engineering subjects registered disabled, and evidence suggesting a large proportion of these students are mature and from a lower economic background, while there is an attainment gap of ~7%.
In partnership with EqualEngineers,and funded by Royal Academy of Engineering (RAEng) as part of its Diversity Impact Programme, the project team - led by Associate Professor of Multimedia Communication and Intelligent Control,
[STAFFMEMBER]
"> Dr Asiya Khan, and Professor of Inclusive Education [STAFFMEMBER]
"> Professor Suanne Gibson - delivered summer schools for Year 10 and post-16 pupils across Plymouth.
They also worked with students from the University to design and develop a range of activities, including micro-internships and bespoke mentoring schemes for students who are neurodivergent and/or have disabilities, alongside a series of guest lectures and webcasts by EqualEngineers.
In 2024, those behind the project created a Diversity Toolkit, providing tips for teaching staff to incorporate diversity into their practice and, crucially, to ensure that students feel supported to pursue a career in the sector.
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