Upcoming Events

 

In this four-part presentation, the speakers will discuss Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and how it may affect learners from four different perspectives. 

 

Karmen Siew begins with a general introduction about what ADHD is and how it affects the brain’s executive function. She will discuss a variety of coping mechanisms and affirm the necessity of being easy on yourself and finding a tribe of people who understand the issues you might be facing. 

 

Alexandra Burke will discuss how ADHD might affect students in the school setting. In particular, how classroom management styles can either boost or wreak havoc on a young person’s ability to cope at school.

 

Gretchen Clark will focus on the inattentive version, ADD, a largely ‘invisible’ form of ADHD and offer insight into how students afflicted with it may approach study. Because women tend to present as ADD more so than as ADHD, her presentation will largely concern this demographic.

 

Sachiko Nakagome will speak about her reasons for seeking a diagnosis, her emotional post-diagnosis journey, the various reactions from Japanese and English-speaking peers about her diagnosis, and effects of a state-of-the-art treatment she received. 

 

In combination, the presenters endeavor to promote awareness of ADHD and how language study may be in some ways more difficult but in other ways, an adventure or even a ‘safe’ subject for the neurodiverse (ND) student. Language classes – where students are encouraged to express their opinions, be themselves, and are rewarded for speaking up – can be the perfect place for students to explore, preserve and respect each other’s individuality. The presenters encourage attendees to listen, take notes and help create such “safe” environments in their own classrooms to give more ND students opportunities to accept and love themselves to develop confidence and find academic success. 

<Profiles>

 

Alexandra Burke has taught at all levels of the Japanese public education system and currently teaches part-time at four universities in the Tokai Region. She is a 3 time winner of the “Michele Steele Best of JALT Chapter Award” for presentations on neurodiversity awareness.

 

Gretchen Clark has taught EFL in the Kansai area for over 20 years, but only recently became aware of how neurodiversity factors into a young person’s learning experience. Like her co-presenters, she aspires to make the classroom a joyful place for language study for all students. 

 

Karmen Siew is a JHS/SHS teacher in Tokyo with a background in psychology. She is 2e (gifted/ADHD) and sees herself in many ‘problem students’, who are usually ND. She hopes to help both staff and ND students have more positive experiences in school.

 

Sachiko Nakagome has been teaching for 20 years. She also works as a writer, translator, and narrator.