Supporting Neurodivergent Students in Communication Sciences and Disorders: Best Practices Integrating UDL and TILT in Academic Courses

In this tutorial, we explore effective andragogical strategies to support neurodivergent students in higher education programs, specifically within academic course in the field of communication sciences and disorders (CSD). By integrating the evidence-based education practices of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and the Transparency in Learning and Teaching (TILT) framework, faculty can create inclusive and supportive learning environments in academic courses to better support neurodivergent students in CSD programs. We discuss practical applications of these frameworks through two sample assignments, supported by recent research, and provide actionable recommendations for faculty in higher education. The goal of this tutorial is to provide practical guidance for applying UDL and TILT principles to assignment design and learning environments to support neurodivergent students and promote greater workforce diversity.

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Publication Details

Journal
Teaching and Learning in Communication Sciences & Disorders
Published
2026-08-17
DOI
https://doi.org/10.61403/2689-6443.1441
Primary Topic
Neuroscience, Education and Cognitive Function
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
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article

Supporting Neurodivergent Students in Communication Sciences and Disorders: Best Practices Integrating UDL and TILT in Academic Courses

Jacqueline A. Towson, Nancy McIntyre, Alexis Cunha
Teaching and Learning in Communication Sciences & Disorders
Neuroscience, Education and Cognitive Function
article

Supporting Neurodivergent Students in Communication Sciences and Disorders: Best Practices Integrating UDL and TILT in Academic Courses

Jacqueline A. Towson, Nancy McIntyre, Alexis Cunha
article en

Abstract

In this tutorial, we explore effective andragogical strategies to support neurodivergent students in higher education programs, specifically within academic course in the field of communication sciences and disorders (CSD). By integrating the evidence-based education practices of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and the Transparency in Learning and Teaching (TILT) framework, faculty can create inclusive and supportive learning environments in academic courses to better support neurodivergent students in CSD programs. We discuss practical applications of these frameworks through two sample assignments, supported by recent research, and provide actionable recommendations for faculty in higher education. The goal of this tutorial is to provide practical guidance for applying UDL and TILT principles to assignment design and learning environments to support neurodivergent students and promote greater workforce diversity.

Teaching and Learning in Communication Sciences & DisordersVol. 10(1)
University of Central Florida (US), San Jose State University (US)
Quality Education
Openalex Percentile: Top 8%
Neuroscience, Education and Cognitive Function
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