Photo by AI25.Studio Studio from Pexels: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photograph-of-coworkers-having-a-quarrel-6632523/ I have been learning about neurodivergence over the past 2+ years and wonder at my prior ignorance of the challenges that neurodivergent individual face. I am studying how to be an effective ally. Part of that is sharing my knowledge with others so that more people can generate neuroinclusive environments. One aspect of this advocacy is highlighting the differences in...

Photo by Pixabay In recent years there has been focus on increasing the diversity of engineering students in higher education. Engineering subjects attract less females and ethnic minorities. And students with special education needs and disabilities are less likely to believe that they are good at science subjects, which are a prerequisite to study engineering. I believe it is equally, if not more, important to create an inclusive environment for students once they embark on their...

Photo by Anna Tarazevich Recently, I went to the ‘Design and Disability’ exhibition at the Victoria and Albert museum in London. It was fascinating! The exhibition examined the “contributions of disabled, deaf, and neurodivergent people and communities to design history and contemporary culture.” From the moment I stepped into the exhibition space I felt welcomed and included, despite being a person without disabilities. The purpose, intent and design of the exhibition was conveyed to the...