Neurological Conditions

Naturally, the conditions mentioned above and other neurological conditions vary in their symptoms and effects. In general, students with these types of illnesses:

• Often experience fatigue (physical, cognitive, and emotional exhaustion).

• May have difficulties with concentration and completion of tasks or assignments.

• Experience pain.

• Have to take medication (with possible side effects).

• Can be more susceptible to stress, and illnesses could be exacerbated by times of stress.

• Can miss lectures due to medical appointments, illness, or time in hospital.

• Some students may have mobility or postural difficulties; with walking, climbing stairs, or remaining in one position for long periods of time.

• Writing and other fine motor activities (including computer use) may also be affected.

• Students may have difficulty with oral communication.

• As explained here, students may have disclosed a neurological condition to their School. Access the LENS report for details on how you can support the student. Implement and support a student’s reasonable accommodations with efficiency and discretion. Be mindful of how the neurological condition may impact a student’s experience of university life.

• Make lecture notes available in advance if possible. Students with neurological conditions may find it difficult to maintain their concentration during lectures. Having lecture notes in advance enables students within the lecture to reduce the number of handwritten notes they need to take, allowing them to concentrate on the material being delivered. This may enable the student to conserve energy for the rest of the university day. 

• Prioritise reading lists. This enables students to engage more easily with pertinent course texts.

• When planning course timetables, try to ensure timetabling gives all students sufficient time to move between teaching venues. Try to avoid significant location changes within a university day e.g. between Trinity main campus and Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St. James’s Hospital.

• Be mindful of keeping areas clear, to reduce the likelihood of accidents. In long lectures, it may be helpful to allow students a quick break. Avoid drawing attention to students who may need to leave class. Accommodate students who may need to sit in certain learning situations e.g. in labs or practical anatomy.

• Be patient when teaching students with speech, language, and communication difficulties. Give students the opportunity, without compelling them, to speak in class. Give students the time they require to express themselves. Do not be reluctant to ask the student to repeat a statement.

• Students with complex needs or severely reduced mobility may have a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEPS). The information for the student's safe evacuation in the event of an emergency will be contained in their LENS report. Training in the use of evacuation equipment can be obtained from the Disability Service.

• Follow Trinity Inclusive Curriculum guidelines as much as possible.

• Help and advice on using the College Accessible information policy.