Neurodivergence
DAE has an open floorplan. Designing and creating is done with hands-on work, and students often work together in larger or smaller groups. This environment can be an additional challenge for neurodivergent students.
Incoming neurodivergent students are advised to set up a meeting with a student counsellor as soon as possible, but by the end of October at the latest. This ensures that there is time to offer advice or organise facilities that require documentation before the first evaluations. Provided the level of education is not affected, the academy will make adjustments.
Potential options Neurodivergent people often have different strengths and can face different challenges. Therefore, it is important to look at specific personal situations with a student counsellor and to look at what is needed and possible to address challenges. The care team can for instance:
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Support with study planning
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Support with informing teachers of needs, for instance:
o Permission to use noise-cancelling headphones o Extra moment of explanation
o Extra break, walking away from the lesson and taking distance
o Less attention to spelling or grammar
o Adjusted setting
o Use of a laptop -
Advise on a request to the Examination Board for adjustments that can support you in your studies
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Advise on a request to the Examination Board for an extra assessment
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Advise on a request to the Examination Board for and alternative study programme
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Or else as discussed in the meeting with a student counsellor
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Please note: it is not possible to arrange a separate private study space.
Some of these options, such as the alternative study programme require filing documentation with the student counsellor. For more information go to: Care.
Incoming students
Neurodivergent students who have ongoing professional guidance are strongly advised to retain access to their professional support system. Switching to professional support in the Netherlands, close to DAE, may take some time to arrange.
(1) Neurodiversity foundation, FAQ - Neurodiversity Foundation (neurodiversiteit.nl)
“The term “neurodivergent” is used to describe individuals whose neurological development and functioning is considered to be different from the dominant societal norm. This includes individuals with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other conditions that affect the way a person thinks, learns, and communicates. Neurodivergence can be something you are born with, but it can also be acquired during your lifetime.”(1)
Disabled people include those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments. DAE follows the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, article 26 which recognises and respects the right of persons with disabilities to benefit from measures designed to ensure their independence, social and occupational integration and participation in the life of the community
Everyone can get ill or have things happen in their lives leading to temporary absences, such as the death of a family member or an accident. For absence lasting one week or less during term inform your tutors. For absence close to exams or lasting longer than one week, contact a student counsellor (via email or in person) as soon as possible to discuss possibilities.
We know and understand it can be difficult to talk about personal well-being and mental and emotional issues. From experience we know talking about it can provide relief and we can make it easier to find support. Therefore, we kindly request you get in touch with a student counsellor.
Eindhoven is a relatively safe city, but students can still experience issues such as theft, harassment, discrimination or violence. Naturally, this can have a great impact. The student counsellors are always happy to listen and provide guidance.
Many DAE students are part of the lesbian, gay, bi+, trans, intersex, queer and asexual community. Sometimes you need some more support when you are discovering yourself. The student counsellors are always willing to lend an ear and provide guidance.
The Space of Stillness is available for prayer, meditation or contemplation (key at reception). If you require a break for prayer the student counsellors are happy to support informing tutors of your needs.
The student counsellors can support in locating and accessing practical matters. Below is an overview of various topics. All are welcome to talk to a student counsellor when more assistance is required, for instance if you get a legal looking letter in Dutch and need help understanding what it says.
Documentation: Submission of an official diagnosis or documentation can be required for requests to the Examination Board such as an alternative a study programme and for other potential adjustments. The student counsellors will discuss requirements during a conversation about potential options for support. This may be a statement from an external authorised professional. Naturally, this does not apply for mobility, visual and auditory impairments. This information is treated confidentially; details are not shared with the Examination Board.
Study delays can result in a need to adjust financial planning. Options for this can be limited, especially for international students