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 can build classrooms and digital spaces that are more flexible, equitable, and effective. Many of our students and colleagues are neurodivergent in a world that remains largely neurotypical, and this reality shapes our editorial and pedagogical choices: inclusion is not a slogan, but a necessity.

Why Neurodivergence Matters

Ancient Studies often relies on dense texts, complex languages, and traditional lecture formats. For some learners, these practices can inadvertently exclude. Yet neurodivergence brings unique strengths—pattern recognition, creative problem-solving, hyperfocus, and fresh interpretive angles. Embracing these perspectives enriches individual learning and strengthens the discipline.

The Role of AI

  • Personalized pathways: Structured, step-by-step itineraries for those who benefit from clear scaffolding, and exploratory prompts for learners who thrive on flexibility.

  • Multimodal access: Visual reconstructions, audio summaries, interactive timelines, and layered glossaries to reduce cognitive load.

  • Supportive mediation: AI-assisted summaries, vocabulary aids, and comparative examples that let students focus on meaning rather than decoding.

Our Commitments

  • Inclusive writing & editing: We encourage clear structure, descriptive headings, and accessible figures/tables (alt text, captions, readable contrasts).

  • Mindful peer review: Reviewers are invited to consider diverse communication styles and to give actionable, specific feedback.

  • Openness to formats: We welcome submissions that include teaching artefacts (prompts, rubrics, student-facing guides) and AI-assisted accessibility materials.

  • Ethical AI use: We promote transparent, well-documented AI workflows and critical reflection on limitations, bias, and data provenance.

These commitments reflect the editorial ethos of AI & Antiquity and of the Center for Innovation in Ancient Worlds (CIAW), which together foster a culture of inclusivity, accessibility, and innovation in the teaching of Antiquity.

Call for Contributions

We invite:

  • 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.
    Please see our Author Guidelines for formatting and ethical AI disclosure.