Neurodiversity and Accessing Creativity

The second event of the Dana Discovery Dialogues series was held on November 29 from 3-4pm ET.

This month’s Dialogue focused on neurodiversity. Divergent minds lead to divergent thinking and problem-solving. This “thinking outside the box” is a strength for many neurodivergent people, who often thrive in entrepreneurship, music, and other creative fields. So, what does neuroscience have to say about these gifts, and are there ways to restructure schools, workplaces, and lifestyles to better harness them? This event featured a conversation about how neurodiversity often comes with increased access to creativity, and how the neurodiversity paradigm is shifting around how we think about conditions that were simply considered “disorders.

Speakers:

• Thomas Armstrong, Ph.D., American Institute for Learning and Development
• Michael Bakan, Ph.D., Florida State University
• Ronald Beghetto, Ph.D., Arizona State University
• Holly White, Ph.D., University of Michigan
• Tyler Jones (moderator), SciCommers

Produced in partnership by the Dana Foundation and Boston College of Communication, Dana Discovery Dialogues is hosted by Mariette DiChristina, dean of Boston University College of Communication, and Tyler Jones of SciCommers. This six-month, virtual series aims to unpack some of the most pressing and occasionally contentious topics in contemporary neuroscience. These discussions are curated to highlight how the latest research influences everything from our personal decisions to the broader challenges society faces. The series is free and open to the public.

Learn more about the Dana Discovery Dialogues, held monthly through March 2024.

*Updated December 14, 2023