Creating Inclusive Workplaces for Neurodivergent Workers
In this concept project an employee (manager) at a corporate workplace learns and applies strategies for inclusive practices specifically for neurodivergent workers. The learner engages in interactions that range from a group meeting to planning to onboard a new employee, to improve their ability to navigate creating an inclusive workplace.
Target Audience: Corporate Employees and Leaders
Responsibilities: Instructional Design, eLearning Development, Action Mapping, Visual Design, Script, Storyboard, and Mockups
Tools Used: Articulate Storyline 360, Figma, Adobe Express, MindMeister, Google Docs, Google Sheets, Amazon Simple Storage Service (AWS)
The Problem
In this case, the client is a large corporate employer. The Talent Management team has been receiving feedback from managers and individual contributors about a lack of knowledge and resources for supporting the growing population of neurodivergent workers within the organization. Managers are unsure how to navigate the variety of access and support needs of employees. If the knowledge gap persists it can lead to loss of productivity, low employee satisfaction, and turnover.
The Solution
After analyzing the problem, I recommended a scenario based eLearning featuring a series of scenarios that would allow both employees and managers to activate prior knowledge, acquire new skills, and practice their interactions in a risk-free learning environment focused around strategies for neurodiversity inclusion.
I also proposed creating a quick reference guide of resources and information that is downloadable from the simulation for review and use. I also proposed a printable agenda for the onboarding of future employees, so that the knowledge and skills acquired in the training can be integrated into future manager-employee interactions.
The final component of the solution would be additional hands on training and information sessions to reinforce the importance of using inclusive strategies for neurodivergent employees.
My Process
After conducting my needs analysis, I created an action map and text based storyboard. I then created visual mockups including a mood board and wireframes. Throughout this process I sought feedback and used an iterative approach to refine the content for my final design.
I conducted my own research and consulted a Subject Matter Expert (SME) to determine the biggest challenges and what solutions would help change manager behavior when working to support neurodivergent employees. Through this behavior change based scenario, the company is expected to see a positive increase in employee inclusion climate survey data by 15%. The action map ensured that I was designing learning experiences aimed at behavior change and implementation of strategies rather than solely knowledge based learning. This portion of the map is specifically related to the accordion interaction that provides the learner with strategies to implement in the workplace after the course is completed.
Text-based Storyboard
I developed a text-based storyboard to act as a blueprint for the final eLearning experience. I wanted to create a real world interactions, to showcase the various ways in which creating an inclusive environment can be approached. Allowing different outcomes in a risk-free learning environment. I also included a mentor character and job aid to guide the audience through the experience and provide information on-demand.
Visual Mockups
To initiate the creative design process, I created a mood board for inspiration, designed a style guide for consistency and uniformity, and iterated on wireframes + mockups to solidify the layout for each type of slide. It was important to me to make sure the colors I integrated were compliant with WCAG and generally web accessibility for learners.
Interactive Prototype
I planned my slides in Figma and then created an interactive prototype in Articulate Storyline 360 to get feedback on functionality. My prototype included an introduction, question, mentor slide and branching to incorrect consequences, as well an accordion interaction. I ran quality assurance checks and solicited feedback to improve the prototype from colleagues. Project issues included hover state colors not matching consistently on the same object across the project and timeline audio overlap. After multiple iterations, I moved on to the full development.
Full Development
I began full development after assessing the prototype feedback. I added voiceover strategically to make the eLearning more engaging and to allow a more Universal Design for Learners who prefer audio input. I did not want to increase the cognitive load of learners who may use the project by adding too much audio or music. As I learn more about creating accessibility in eLearning, I will make updates for access tools like screen readers. Ideally, a multimodal approach would be taken in further development of this course. At the end of the course, learners are provided a downloadable PDF that summarizes key details and resources from the eLearning experience to integrate into their everyday work.
Takeaways
As a former classroom teacher, I have worked with many students who are neurodivergent. Having worked in a Human Resources setting, I know that inclusion and accessibility is just as important in workplaces. I applied my knowledge of Universal Design for Learning throughout the process, to make the most accessible learning experience. Using a conversational tone and real world scenarios like a video conference helps make the experience more applicable and interactive for learners. This project has complex interactions and triggers which adds to the variety of ways information can be presented and knowledge can be checked within the eLearning modules in an effort to increase the interest and engagement of learners. I would recommend an additional in-person training to discuss, apply the skills from the eLearning, and allow for deeper understanding of the concepts. To evaluate effectiveness, implementing assessment tools that provide learner feedback, skill testing, and performance metrics. I would use this data to make continuous improvements.