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Coursera

Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces

via Coursera

Overview

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Learn to design neuroinclusive workplaces that embrace all individuals' sensory and cognitive needs. This book offers strategies to optimize environments for better comfort, productivity, and well-being. This resource equips professionals with actionable strategies to design inclusive, neuroinclusive workspaces that support cognitive well-being and performance. It bridges the gap between research and practice, offering practical insights for creating environments that foster belonging and productivity for all employees. This resource is ideal for HR professionals, DEI teams, architects, interior designers, and workplace managers who want to create more inclusive and supportive workspaces. No prior architectural experience is required, but familiarity with workplace design or inclusion practices is beneficial. This book guides readers through designing neuroinclusive workplaces by exploring neurodiversity, sensory processing, and cognitive well-being. It introduces the principles of inclusive design, offers research-driven strategies, and provides actionable recommendations for creating environments that support diverse sensory and cognitive needs. This course is based on Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces, by Kay Sargent. From Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces Copyright © 2025 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All rights reserved, including rights for text and data mining and training of artificial technologies or similar technologies. Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Syllabus

  • Framing the Issue
    • This module explores the principles of neuroinclusive design, focusing on how to create flexible and sensory-aware spaces that support neurodivergent individuals. It highlights the importance of evidence-based design and addresses common pitfalls in well-intentioned approaches. Learners will gain insights into the opportunities and challenges of inclusive design through real-world examples and research findings.
  • Defining Neurotypes
    • This module explores the concept of neurotypes, focusing on neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD and OCD, and how they influence behavior, cognition, and mental health. Learners will gain an understanding of neurodiversity and its implications for inclusive practices in various settings.
  • Great for Business
    • This module explores the business advantages of neurodiversity, including innovation and productivity, and provides strategies for creating inclusive hiring practices and workplace environments that support neurodivergent employees.
  • Human Functioning and Sensory Processing
    • This module explores the complexities of human functioning and sensory processing, focusing on neurodivergence, how individuals process information, and strategies to support diverse cognitive styles. Learners will gain insight into sensory integration challenges and develop inclusive design thinking skills.
  • Sensory Intelligence
    • This module introduces the concept of sensory intelligence (SQ) and explores how the Sensory Matrixâ„¢ evaluates sensory styles, thresholds, and responses. Learners will gain insights into how environmental stimuli impact well-being and design. The content highlights the importance of understanding sensory differences in creating inclusive spaces.
  • Survey Findings
    • This module explores the findings from surveys and workshops focused on neurodivergent experiences in built environments. Learners will gain insights into sensory sensitivities, design challenges, and strategies for creating inclusive spaces. It emphasizes translating research into actionable design principles.
  • Senses and Degree of Stimulation
    • This module explores the role of sensory needs in workplace design, focusing on how neuroinclusive principles can enhance well-being and productivity by addressing auditory, tactile, and gustatory factors. Learners will gain an understanding of how different sensory experiences impact individuals and how to create adaptable environments. Practical insights from research and surveys are included to support inclusive design strategies.
  • Environmental Influences
    • This module explores how environmental design affects human behavior and well-being by examining principles like coherence, fascination, and homeyness. It also covers the impact of color, texture, and spatial design on physical and emotional states. Learners will gain insights into creating inclusive and functional spaces.
  • Other Elements to Consider
    • This module explores essential design elements that contribute to inclusive and supportive work environments. Learners will examine biophilic design, wayfinding, and multisensory strategies to enhance employee well-being and productivity. It provides practical insights into creating spaces that cater to diverse cognitive and sensory needs.
  • Degrees of Inclusive Design
    • This module explores the principles of inclusive design, focusing on how to create environments that support diverse needs. It highlights the difference between equality and equity and examines how thoughtful design can enhance user experience and productivity. Learners will gain insights into designing spaces that are accessible and adaptable for all individuals.
  • HOK's Approach to Inclusive Design
    • This module explores how to design inclusive workspaces by analyzing organizational needs, creating detailed personas, and implementing flexible design strategies that cater to diverse work behaviors and social dynamics. Learners will gain insights into modern workplace challenges and practical approaches to foster inclusivity and productivity.
  • Steps Toward Designing for Inclusion
    • This module explores the principles of neuroinclusive design, focusing on the social model of disability and environmental misalignments. Learners will gain an understanding of how to create equitable and accessible spaces that support neurodiversity. It also addresses common misconceptions about the costs of accommodation in the workplace.
  • Design Considerations
    • This module explores inclusive design principles and their application in creating environments that support diverse needs. It covers strategies for adapting spaces and emphasizes the importance of inclusion in the built environment. Learners will gain insights into how to implement equitable design practices.
  • The Three-Legged Stool
    • This module explores the three-legged stool approach to inclusion in the workplace, focusing on operational strategies, inclusive design, and individual accommodations. Learners will gain insights into creating diverse and accessible work environments through real-world examples and best practices.
  • Going Forward
    • This module explores how awareness, technology, and work trends can create inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals. Learners will examine strategies for reducing sensory barriers and designing equitable spaces, as well as how flexible work schedules and digital tools support diverse cognitive needs.

Taught by

Wiley Skills Network

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