Work-Integrated Learning for Neurodivergent Students
Transforming work-integrated learning for neuro-inclusion
What is neurodiversity?
What is work-integrated learning?
Neurodiversity refers to the different ways people interact with the world - including ways of thinking, learning, and experiencing their environment.
Work-integrated learning (WIL) is any work-based learning opportunity that students get credit for in their degree programs. Different types of WIL include mandatory clinical or field placements, service learning, internships, co-ops, and others.
Neurodiversity Celebration Week
Join us for the kick-off of Neurodiversity Celebration Week. Enjoy free treats, neuro-inclusive activities, and explore the neuro-inclusive work happening on campus.
Life Design Hub (MSC 171)
March 17, 2025
10am - 1pm
Neurodiversity Celebration Week Events
Calm Corner
A cozy midday gathering with engaging activities for UCalgary students. Make new friends, unleash creativity, and find your calm.
Date: March 19, 2025
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
Location: In-person - Sensory-Friendly Lounge (MSC 450)
STAR Program: Drop-in Peer Technology Assistance
This drop-in program helps students with adaptive technologies, offering tailored guidance and peer support.
Date: March 19, 2025
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (Wednesdays)
Location: In-person - Check in at SAS (MSC 452)
Graduate Students' Association Neurodiversity Celebration
Hosted by the GSA’s Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA) Committee, this event is an opportunity for graduate students to discuss their experiences with neurodiversity and intersecting identities. Enjoy food, low-effort crafts, and tactile toolkits in a sensory-friendly environment. Open to all graduate students, regardless of neurotype!
Date: March 20, 2025
Time: 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location: In-person - Taylor Institute for Teaching and Learning (TI 250)
Sensory-Friendly Success Seminar: Creating Your Personalized Study Plan
Create a personalized study plan that works for you! This session will help with academic goal setting and time management for effective study.
Date: March 20, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.
Location: In-person - TFDL 355D, Student Success Centre
Share your story
Help us celebrate neurodiversity across campus.
We especially encourage those from equity-deserving groups (women, indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible/racialized minorities, and diverse sexual orientation and gender identities) to share their experiences of being neurodivergent.
Try out Tactile Toolkits
Now available in offices across campus, Tactile Toolkits come with a variety of tactile tools for you to spin, twist, pop, and explore.
All tactile tools were 3D printed at the Schulich School of Engineering with open access designs provided by printables.com.
Elyse Bouvier
Elyse Bouvier
What is a tactile tool?
Tactile tools, sometimes called ‘stims’ or ‘fidgets’, are small objects that provide tactile stimulation to help people focus and self-regulate. While tactile tools can be used by anyone, they can be particularly helpful for neurodivergent people. These tools can also be used to help alleviate anxiety and reduce stress.
Neurodiversity news across campus
Read about UCalgary's neurodivergent community and neuro-inclusive changes
How one UCalgary student navigated neurodiversity and masking across the globe
Faith Wegoye shares their experiences at the intersection of race and neurodiversity
Diversifying doctors and those who are taught to be them
Medical student Kailey Newel shares how her experiences with neurodivergence and chronic illness make her a better physician
UCalgary alum shares neuro-inclusive tips for success
Dr. TC Waisman revisits journey through graduate school and wisdom learned along the way
Our strategic approach
Increase student engagement
Facilitate student events, workshops, and create resources that prepare neurodivergent students for WIL opportunities.
Equip industry
Work with academic staff and industry professionals to better prepare employers to accessibly facilitate students.
Facilitate campus collaboration
Facilitate collaboration across different UCalgary units that support neurodivergent students.
Support navigation
Work with academic staff and faculty to simplify student navigation of WIL opportunities and support services.
Raise knowledge and awareness
Enhance the visibility of the neurodivergent community at UCalgary by sharing stories and celebrating change champions.
Neurodiversity support across campus
About The Sinneave Family Foundation
The Sinneave Family Foundation (Sinneave) works to reduce barriers and facilitate opportunities for autistic youth and adults to live, learn, work and thrive in their communities and to realize their desired futures. Sinneave draws on expertise and experience in innovative program and service development, knowledge sharing and collaborative community activities that generate lasting outcomes.
UCalgary and The Sinneave Family Foundation
Partnering with The Sinneave Family Foundation and learning from their deep expertise, resources and programs will bolster the success and sustainability of work-integrated learning programs and support equitable participation in these programs for neurodiverse students.