Neurodiverse learners (ND) have a unique perspective on Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI). Because they often face challenges in traditional educational settings, they are among the first to adopt new technologies and are eager to see how Gen AI can improve their learning experience. ND learners may struggle with sensory overload, social interactions, and executive functioning. Gen AI can help address these challenges by providing personalised learning experiences by modifying information resources to match the learner's abilities. Applications of Gen AI that can support ND learners in VET education include tools that adapt to each learner's individual learning style or create accessible learning materials such as text-to-speech and speech-to-text transcriptions and visual representations of learners’ ideas. However, educators need to also consider the challenges and limitations of Gen AI and to balance Gen AI-assisted learning with opportunities to develop critical thinking skills and creativity. Therefore, the perspectives of ND learners on Gen AI can be usefully applied to inform VET curriculum development and pedagogy. An online survey was used to gather the perspectives of tertiary ND learners on Gen AI. They were asked about their experiences with Gen AI, their perceptions of the potential benefits and challenges of using Gen AI in education, and their suggestions for ways Gen AI use would improve learning experiences. This research suggests that Gen AI has the potential to be a valuable tool for ND learners, but it is important to be aware of the challenges and to use these tools responsibly. These findings inform VET curriculum development and pedagogy in several ways. For example, the research identifies specific ways in which Gen AI can be used to address the academic needs of ND learners, informs the development of more inclusive and accessible teaching practices and can be used to raise awareness of Gen AI's potential to improve the learning experience of ND learners. This information can be used to inform the development of more inclusive and effective teaching practices, the development of Gen AI powered learning tools, and policy changes that support ND learners in VET education, including the growing international focus on supporting ND learners reflects a global shift towards more inclusive educational practices across various learning environments, including vocational education and training. © 2025 The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd.
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