Neurodivergence in the Workplace

Presented by Mary Roth and Katie Moses

Course preview:

In this session, we will provide an introduction to neurodivergence and how to support neurodivergent learners in the workplace.  We’ll also discuss how neurodivergent individuals are impacted in the workplace by neurotypical standards.

In this session, we will:

• Debunk common myths about neurodiversity
• Introduce the concept of Universal Design for accessibility
• Explain the principles of graphic design
• Explore traditional facilitation techniques from a neurodiverse lens
• Practice applying this content to real-world situations

This session is geared towards folks who design and facilitate learning, but is applicable for anyone who wants to better understand neurodiversity and support a more inclusive workplace for neurodiverse peers.

Learners who participate in this session will:

• Be able to explain the basic concepts of neurodivergence and the implications for learning environments.
• Be able to locate resources for accessibility practices and connect them to universal design principles.
• Be able to create a design or facilitation plan incorporating universal design principles and WCAG 2.0.

Mary Roth:

Mary Roth (she/her) is an experienced learning & development professional with over 15 years' experience in a variety of industries. She's held an array of L&D roles including facilitation, content development, eLearning development and instructional design, in addition to process management and knowledge management roles.

Mary is passionate about creating learning experiences that are welcoming and accessible to all learners. She has presented on a variety of topics supporting digital accessibility in learning.

Mary currently works for Principal Financial Group as an Instructional Design Consultant. She lives in Des Moines with her spouse Joe and two children. Together they love hiking, traveling and attending concerts.

Katie Moses:

Katie Moses (she/her) is also an experienced learning & development professional who started her career in youth development and outdoor education before transitioning to adult learning through the Drake University MSLD program. She has been both a facilitator and instructional designer with experience in eLearning design, multi-media and graphic design, and content development.

Katie is a Des Moines native, working for Principal Financial Group and lives with her fiance Brian and their two cats. She enjoys gardening, kayaking, reading, and backpacking when the weather is right.