"Dies academicus": Neurodiversity in studies, teaching and research

The University of Erfurt sees itself as a diversity-sensitive, learning institution at which needs- and interest-oriented programmes and measures are to be developed that promote a diversity-sensitive teaching and learning culture. Every year at the end of May/beginning of June, the "Diversity Days" take place worldwide, nationally and also in Thuringia. The University of Erfurt also regularly takes part and would like to organise a "Day of Teaching/Dies academicus" in the summer semester (prospectively every two years), which focuses on one dimension of diversity/diversity – in 2026: Neurodivergence. This includes AD(H)S, autism, dyscalculia, dyslexia and giftedness.

Depending on the definition, five to ten per cent of the population are statistically neurodivergent. However, these neurological dispositions are barely visible to the general public; there is (too) little knowledge and (too) many clichés. The Teaching Day "Neurodiversity on Campus" aims to increase knowledge and awareness, highlight the presence and relevance of the topic in university education (especially in teacher training), present our own research on the topic, open up information, participation and exchange formats and make the specific needs, competences and challenges of neurodivergent adults visible in studies and teaching. All university members are addressed – whether neurotypical or neurodivergent, with or without previous contact with neurodivergence. On Wednesday 3 June 2026 (when there are no committees or teaching), there will be four to five (parallel) time slots, including short lectures and expert panels, workshops and poster presentations on relevant research and teaching projects on campus, networking opportunities and information stands.

More information on the specific programme will follow in due course.