First Ever Neurodivergence-Friendly Study Sessions at RMIT

First Ever Neurodivergence-Friendly Study Sessions at RMIT

Over the month of October, RMIT has hosted the first ever Neurodivergence-friendly study sessions. The RMIT Library, RUSU and ELA have come together to provide a structured study session for students who are neurodivergent.

The study sessions are called ‘Shut up and Write’ with the goal of creating a safe study environment within the neurodivergent community. Whether this is to have intervals of working time allocated, a quiet but not silent space or to enjoy the sensory toys provided by RUSU.

I was also impressed at being able to see other happy neurodiverse people in the room able to focus. The environment was definitely conducive for these people to work, and the pomodoro technique enabled us to plow through our writing.

- RMIT Student who attended the Neurodiverse 'Shut up and Study Session'.

‘Shut up and Write’ offers a wide range of selected environmental factors that have been chosen to make your session comfortable. These include a large space in the library to spread out in, structured breaks, dimmed lights, healthy snacks and structured breaks. 

The structure of the session involves social catch ups, housekeeping, shut up and write time, breaks and reflecting on the work that has been completed. 

Here is what RMIT students that have attended previous sessions have had to say.

I love the dimmed lighting of the room, it helps a lot for me. Having a certain amount of people there doing their own work, without making too much noise also helps with my need for body-doubling.
ADHD frequently takes my focus away and having something like this nearby to help distract the distraction worked wonders. I also thought it was great to be able to get Matthew from the Academic Skills advice department at RMIT to help some students struggling with their work. I encourage anyone struggling with their studies to take advantage of the opportunity to ask for his free advice

If ‘Shut up and Write’ interests you, you are in luck! There are still sessions available, you can find more information about the structure and what is involved here.

Note: registrations are encouraged, but not required. By registering your spot, you'll receive event reminders and resources.

20 October 2022

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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.