Neurodiversity
At AI & Antiquity, we believe that the study of the Ancient World must be both rigorous and inclusive. Neurodivergence, including ADHD, autism, dyslexia, high sensitivity, giftedness, among others, should not be seen as a barrier to learning, but as an opportunity to rethink how we design and deliver education. By recognizing diverse cognitive profiles, we build classrooms and digital spaces that are more flexible, equitable, and effective. Inclusion is not a slogan, but a necessity.
Inclusion & Technology
Why Neurodivergence Matters
Ancient Studies often relies on dense texts, complex languages, and traditional lecture formats that can inadvertently exclude. Neurodivergence brings strengths, including pattern recognition, creative problem-solving, hyperfocus, and fresh interpretive angles, that enrich both learning and the discipline.
The Role of AI
- Personalized pathways: Structured itineraries and flexible prompts for different cognitive styles.
- Multimodal access: Visual reconstructions, audio summaries, timelines, and layered glossaries.
- Supportive mediation: AI summaries and vocabulary aids to reduce cognitive load.
Our Commitments
Inclusive Writing
Clear structure, descriptive headings, accessible figures and tables (alt text, captions, readable contrast).
Mindful Peer Review
Recognition of diverse communication styles and actionable, specific feedback.
Openness to Formats
Teaching artefacts, prompts, rubrics, and AI-assisted accessibility materials are welcome.
Ethical AI Use
Transparent workflows, critical reflection on bias, limitations, and data provenance.
These commitments reflect the editorial ethos of AI & Antiquity and of the Center for Innovation in Ancient Worlds (CIAW), fostering a culture of inclusivity, accessibility, and innovation in the teaching of Antiquity.
Call for Contributions
We actively welcome and invite submissions on the following areas:
- Research articles on inclusive pedagogy and accessibility in Ancient Studies.
- Case studies of AI-supported adaptations (before/after materials, outcomes, pitfalls).
- Short notes on neurodiversity-aware course design, assessment, and feedback.
Research & Publications
Recent publications exploring the intersection of neurodivergence, inclusive pedagogy, Artificial Intelligence, and the teaching of the Ancient World. These studies examine how innovative approaches can foster accessibility, critical thinking, and meaningful engagement in Ancient History and Classical Studies
Flipped Learning and AI-Supported Itineraries for Neurodivergent Learners: A Case Study in Ancient History
This peer-reviewed study examines how flipped learning, Artificial Intelligence, and inclusive instructional design can support neurodivergent learners in Ancient History while strengthening autonomy, engagement, and executive functioning.
Rethinking Ancient History: Forgotten Voices, Inclusive Teaching and Artificial Intelligence
This chapter presents the project Forgotten Voices in Antiquity, which reimagines Ancient History teaching by bringing traditionally marginalized groups, including women, children, enslaved people, foreigners, and other underrepresented communities, into the centre of historical analysis.
Through the critical use of Artificial Intelligence, students learn to identify biases, compare AI-generated narratives with primary sources, and develop historical, digital, and ethical literacy within an inclusive and neurodiversity-aware learning environment.
Forthcoming Articles
The forthcoming AI & Antiquity, Volume 2 Issue 2, will bring together international contributions exploring neurodiversity, accessibility, inclusive pedagogy, and innovation in Ancient Studies.
The Positive Contribution of Neurodivergence to Ancient Studies
Jenny Read-Heimerdinger
Institut Catholique de Toulouse
The Neurodiverse Teaching the Neurodiverse
Julia Tomas
The Open University
The Relaxed Tutorial Project
Cora Beth Fraser
The Open University
The Case Study of the “Simulacrum”
Sebastián Altamirano
Universidad de Costa Rica
