Supporting Neurodivergent Students in Higher Education
This 2-hour workshop explores how neurodivergence, especially in executive function, social interaction, and learning, influences student experiences. The session begins with a foundational component, using short presentations, guided self-reflection, and small-group discussion to explore the role of language in neurodiversity and examine its prevalence. It also considers how learning, communication, well-being, and systemic barriers intersect. This groundwork builds context-specific awareness and prepares participants to connect key concepts to selected inclusive strategies. The final segment offers practical examples and brief activities to help adapt these strategies to teaching, advising, and student support contexts.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this workshop, staff and faculty will be able to:
- Define key terms related to neurodiversity, including neurotypical and neurodivergent.
- Recognize how variations in executive functioning, social interaction, and learning profiles — within the context of neurodivergence — can create either supportive experiences or barriers for students.
- Reflect on your own assumptions and perspectives to develop a deeper understanding of diverse student experiences.
- Identify two inclusive strategies from the examples provided that could be adapted for teaching, advising, or student support roles.
What to expect at the session
Session length: 2 hours
This workshop may include the following activities:
- Instructor-led presentations covering key concepts and terms
- Guided self-reflection to link ideas with your personal experiences
- Small group discussions to exchange perspectives and strategies
- Review of examples and resources via slides
- You may sit, stand, or move around as needed
Carleton University embraces diversity and inclusion in the workplace. If you require a form of accommodation in order to participate fully in this workshop, please contact StudentSupportCertificate@carleton.ca to arrange accommodations.
CACUSS Competencies
The Student Support Certificate provides growth and development opportunities aligned with the Canadian Association of College and University Student Services’ (CACUSS) Competency Model. The Supporting Neurodivergent Students in Higher Education workshop aligns with elements of the following competencies:
- Equity, diversity and inclusion
- Student advising, support and advocacy
- Emotional and interpersonal intelligence