tactile tool

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.


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.


Tactile Toolkits

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. 

Pink tactile tool placed on table

Elyse Bouvier

a box labelled Tactile Toolkit containing a variety tactile tools

Elyse Bouvier

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. 

You can print your own tactile tools using the same designs and the Schulich School of Engineering's 3D printers. 

 


Neurodiversity news across campus

Read about UCalgary's neurodivergent community and neuro-inclusive changes 

Rochelle Lamoureux, Student Advisor at the Haskayne School of Business

'My purpose is to support marginalized communities.'

UCalgary alum and EDIA practitioner, Rochelle Lamoureux, reflects on how she developed a fulfilling career by embracing her ADHD.

Dr. Zack Marshall, Graduate Program Director for the Department of Community Health Sciences

"Neurodivergent people are already here": Neurodiversity and academia

Dr. Zack Marshall, a neurodivergent associate professor at the Cumming School of Medicine reflects on his inclusive vision for the future of higher education.

Kailey Newel second year medical student

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.


Our strategic approach

1

Increase student engagement

Facilitate student events, workshops, and create resources that prepare neurodivergent students for WIL opportunities.


2

Equip industry

Work with academic staff and industry professionals to better prepare employers to accessibly facilitate students. 


3

Facilitate campus collaboration

Facilitate collaboration across different UCalgary units that support neurodivergent students.


4

Support navigation

Work with academic staff and faculty to simplify student navigation of WIL opportunities and support services. 


5

Raise knowledge and awareness

Enhance the visibility of the neurodivergent community at UCalgary by sharing stories and celebrating change champions. 


Neurodiversity support across campus

Neurodiversity Support Office

As part of Student Wellness Services, the Neurodiversity Support Office offers 1-on-1 advising sessions via appointment or drop-in as well as neurodiversity workshops and education.

Learn more

Student Accessibility Services

Students registered with Student Accessibility Services can access formal accommodations on a per course basis. 

Learn more

Centre for Career and Personal Development

The Centre for Career & Personal Development provides career advising, a life design program, and career fairs to connect you with industry and community partners.

Learn more

Student Success Centre

The Student Success Centre offers students at all levels opportunities to develop their academic skills through inclusive resources, workshops, and appointments.

Learn more

NICE Peer Mentors

The Neurodiversity Immersive Campus Experience (NICE) team is a students-in-partnership initiative where student mentors and volunteers work together to create a neuro-inclusive peer support community.

Learn more

Azrieli Accelerator

The Azrieli Accelerator supports transdisciplinary teams in developing new neurodevelopmental interventions and treatments to enable improved outcomes for children, youth, and adults.

Learn more

University of Calgary Recovery Community

The University of Calgary Recovery Community is an inclusive, peer-driven space supporting all pathways to recovery, building community, and reducing addiction stigma on campus. Activities include ally training, peer support, social events, and anti-stigma initiatives.

Learn more

Experience Catalogue

The experience catalogue is a searchable hub for all different kinds of experiential learning opportunities happening across campus.

Learn more

Sinneave Family Foundation

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.