
054: Islands of Brilliance with Dr. Kate Siekman | A Model of Inclusive Learning Experiences where Neurodivergent Learners Can Thrive
10/30/23 • 33 min
In this episode, we interviewed Dr. Kate Siekman about Islands of Brilliance, an organization dedicated to creating learning experiences that support and empower neurodivergent learners. By pairing arts, design, and STEAM content with individual SpIns, different levels of program options, and mentorship, Islands of Brilliance has created a space where children and young adults on the autism spectrum can thrive. We discussed the start of Islands of Brilliance, the different options for programming, and how the organization has created these welcoming, engaging, and supportive learning experiences.
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Introduction and conclusion music: "You Can Do More" by lemonmusicstudio
In this episode, we interviewed Dr. Kate Siekman about Islands of Brilliance, an organization dedicated to creating learning experiences that support and empower neurodivergent learners. By pairing arts, design, and STEAM content with individual SpIns, different levels of program options, and mentorship, Islands of Brilliance has created a space where children and young adults on the autism spectrum can thrive. We discussed the start of Islands of Brilliance, the different options for programming, and how the organization has created these welcoming, engaging, and supportive learning experiences.
Click here to earn your PD certificate for listening
Introduction and conclusion music: "You Can Do More" by lemonmusicstudio
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053: Eazilee with Rebecca Scott | Improving the Approach to Assistive Technology Recommendations and Selections
Billions of people around the world use assistive technology, but the wide variety of different AT devices, equipment, and products can be overwhelming both for people recommending and adopting technology. Eazilee is a platform and community centered on finding the right assistive technology. We talked to Rebecca Scott about how overwhelming AT decisions can be and how their website acts as a database of user reviews and recommendations that can help people find the right technology for them. This platform offers an intersection between AT users, health professionals, and AT companies and start-ups and provides a global community of support. (Episode Transcript)
Click here to earn your PD certificate for listening
Introduction and conclusion music: "You Can Do More" by lemonmusicstudio
Next Episode

055: Queens College Neurodiversity Hub with Dr. Sally Izquierdo & Kartika Kumari | Navigating Neurodiversity in Higher Education to Empower Staff and Students
In this episode, we interview Dr. Sally Izquierdo and Kartika Kumari about their work creating the Neurodiversity Hub at Queens College. The hub provides access to quality resources about neurodiversity and how to support students in the classroom, specifically within higher education. These artifacts can help professors and staff create more welcoming and accessible learning environments. During our conversation, we discuss the process for creating the hub and selecting quality, informative resources. We also talked about the impact that the hub has had on faculty members, neurodivergent students, and their peers. Finally, we discuss the future plans and goals to continue to expand the hub, as well as the importance of supporting neurodiversity within higher education.
- Episode Transcript
- Neurodiversity Hub
- Queens College Neurodiversity Hub article (Inside Higher Ed)
Click here to earn your PD certificate for listening
Introduction and conclusion music: "You Can Do More" by lemonmusicstudio
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