This article has been written by Scarlet James, Events Officer for our Disabled Students Group.
October marks ADHD Awareness Month, a time to highlight the experiences, challenges and strengths of those living and studying with ADHD. At The Open University, distance learning offers unique opportunities and obstacles for neurodiverse students. To shed light on this, , spoke to our Wales Regional Representative Michael Jones about his journey with ADHD, how he manages his studies, and what inclusion means in our student community.
Could you share a little about your journey as an Open University student with ADHD?
Of course, so I first studied at a brick-and-mortar university and due to receiving no support for my neurodiversity, I found it really challenging. After completing the degree there at a grade much lower than needed for my career plans, I realised that I needed to find another chance to get my degree. This is why I started with The Open University.
At first, studying with the OU was tough; I felt isolated, misunderstood and unsupported. This was when I first attended Open SU events (when we were still known as the Association), got to know fellow students, made new friends and heard about the support the University can offer. For a while, I still gave in to the stigma and tried to continue without support rather than admit I needed it. Then, after failing a TMA on a module (which I have since resat), I realised that without the proper support, I would not achieve my potential. This is when I spoke to the disability support team and informed them of my neurodiversity. Since then, my studying experience has dramatically improved.
What does a typical study day or routine look like for you while learning from home?
A typical study day starts with me getting distracted by my phone for about an hour, then drinking about a gallon of coffee, before I realise I need to finish some work. This is where I am grateful for my good friends I have through Open SU, who allow me to give them a call, and we study together online. The accountability we give each other has really helped us focus.
What challenges does ADHD bring to your OU studies, especially with distance learning?
ADHD makes studying difficult, especially with focus and executive functioning. Prioritising my studies and making time for them is tough, and I often fall behind on my study planner. Organisation is also a challenge, so scheduling tutorials isn’t easy, and I sometimes complete assignments at the last minute.
Are there particular strategies, routines or tools that help you stay on track with online learning?
Yes. Through the Open SU, I’ve made good friends, and we study together, holding each other accountable, which helps me stay on track. I also use the SCONUL access scheme (Society of College, National and University Libraries) to study at university and college libraries – being in a dedicated study environment makes a big difference. Listening to music while I work helps me concentrate, and attending regular Open SU events allows me to connect with fellow students and build friendships around study, which stops me from feeling isolated. During exams, I also find taking walks helpful, primarily as the OU provides me with extra time.
Do you find specific study spaces at home or elsewhere more supportive than others?
Studying in libraries, public schools, universities, or colleges through the SCONUL scheme helps me. I find myself quite in tune with my environment, so being in such a studious atmosphere really supports me.
How have OU’s systems and your tutors supported you in managing your ADHD?
Regular contact with my tutor keeps me focused and accountable. The flexibility of OU study and the ability to work anywhere really suits me. I’ve also been given assignment extensions when I need them, which helps when I fall behind, and extra time in exams, which allows me to take short breaks and refocus.
Do you feel your tutors and fellow students understand ADHD well enough?
I’ve found fellow students to be very understanding, primarily through the Disabled Students Group, and at regular events where I can connect with others who share similar challenges. Some tutors, on the other hand, don’t seem to understand ADHD fully, and it can feel like individual needs are glossed over. That said, as part of the Student Leadership Team, I know a lot of work is underway to improve this.
What makes you feel most included and supported as a distance learner with ADHD?
Truthfully, it’s the friendships I’ve made through the Open SU. Having people who take the time to get to know me and support me makes a huge difference, and the events run by the Open SU also help me feel included and part of a community.
What advice would you give to another OU student who’s newly navigating ADHD while studying?
I would advise contacting students and tutors about your needs – you’re not alone. There are many neurodivergent students at the OU, and the Student Union is like a supportive family. Attend events, talk about your challenges, and you’ll often pick up advice or tools that can transform your study experience.
Do you feel ADHD gives you strengths and challenges in your learning? If so, what are they?
Yes, ADHD gives me both strengths and challenges. One strength is that I’m passionate about applied mathematics, so I can become thoroughly engrossed and eager to learn more when I study. My neurodivergent thinking also helps me approach problems creatively, often coming up with solutions that are outside the box. On the other hand, challenges include organisation, keeping up consistently with my studies, and occasionally overthinking assignment questions.
What’s one thing you wish more people understood about being a distance learner with ADHD?
I am not just lazy when I work on assignments at the last minute. Although I may appear over-involved in the forums or tutorials I attend, it is simply because I have a passion for the subject, not because I consider my voice more critical. I am merely another student with a mind that works differently from most people.
How do you think ADHD shapes your approach to your future goals or career after your OU studies?
ADHD helps me hyperfocus on my goals and do what’s necessary to achieve them. At the same time, it can feel intimidating because I’m unsure how potential employers might view my neurodiversity.
Closing thoughts
Micahel is not only navigating his studies with ADHD but also contributing to the broader student voice as part of the Open SU Student Leadership Team as Wales Regional Representative. His perspective highlights the importance of recognising neurodiverse experiences within distance learning, and ensuring every student feels supported, valued and included.
As we mark ADHD Awareness Month, let’s continue working towards greater understanding and allyship across the OU community – celebrating the strengths of neurodiverse students and ensuring equity in every aspect of learning.