DSA for part time degree

[OrchidOrchard]

I’m not sure if this is in the right topic so apologies if not.

I have a recent combined type ADHD diagnosis. I am 2 years in to a four year degree course and my student support worker has advised me to apply for DSA. I am going to apply and go for the assessment but I’m not sure what could help me that would be covered by this grant.

I have nearly quit twice now and it’s been a real struggle to get this far.

my struggles are around being organised, motivated etc. I already have a laptop, and no transport issues. I do use alot of different notebooks, pens, folders etc but I just buy them as and when required. I don’t see how any particular software could help me. One suggestion is tutoring but it’s not that I need extra support with understanding the work, just organising myself.

The only thing I can think of that would help me is for someone following me around taking distractions out of my hands and making me work! I don’t think I can pay someone to do that.

maybe noise cancelling headphones or ear defenders could help in the tutorials. I don’t mean to listen to music I mean to cancel out the chatter. I’ve already changed where I sit in the room so I’m not in the middle of everyone. But then I’d be taking them in and out.

Has anyone found anything helpful for study?

also, I work full time as a pastoral support worker in a secondary school and have a busy family.

Thanks in anticipation.

DSA will pay for an assistive technology package - usually planning and mindmapping software, recording software, possibly a printer/scanner and ink and paper allowance, and a 1:1 mentor. The mentor will help with organisation and time management strategies and just be someone to check in with regularly. Some people find it easier to get things done if they have someone regularly checking on their progress. Sometimes but not usually you might have a Study Skills tutor to help with research and academic writing type skills for assignments. At the Study Needs Assessment they should explain these things to you and you can discuss which things you would find helpful.

I would just go to the assessment and then try out what they recommend as you don't really lose anything by trying it out.

That’s brilliant thankyou. I wasn’t sure if I needed to be pre prepared as I just don’t know what is out there!

it looks like for part time I can’t apply till June so will see what they say.

thanks again

And just to add, the support package usually includes mentor support, which is someone to help you plan and prepare work and to talk through other access issues. You would also likely get exam accommodations such as extra time, a quiet room and so on.

The only thing I can think of that would help me is for someone following me around taking distractions out of my hands and making me work! I don’t think I can pay someone to do that.

I get paid for this. I’m an ADHDer and a specialist study skills support tutor. I have a number of students who use the sessions to get on with their work.