Neurodivergent individuals have unique challenges and needs when navigating the work environment, from adapting to rigid structures to finding a sense of belonging within the workplace culture and community. These needs are often not fully addressed due to a lack of understanding and insufficient resources, which can prevent them from reaching their full potential. While traditional design models and accessibility practices can help significantly, design models and frameworks crafted specifically for supporting neurodivergent individuals are still needed.

This session explores a new theoretical framework for understanding the impact of individual support, personal belonging, and frequent barriers to a neurodivergent person’s success. It explores the intersections between different levels of support and how they correlate to a sense of belonging and inclusion. By understanding this multi-tiered approach, professionals can more effectively align their organizational practices with a person’s needs and foster a more inclusive culture.

Megan Kohler is the Executive Director and Lead Designer of Megan Kohler Consulting. She is also an Assistant Teaching Professor and Learning Designer at The Pennsylvania State University. With nearly 20 years of experience in Higher Ed, she specializes in designing innovative online, tech-enhanced, and blended learning experiences. Recognized for her quality design work, she is a recipient of the 2021 Marion G. Mitchell Award for Innovative Teaching. Her research, supported by a Schreyer Institute Scholarship, focuses on supporting neurodivergent learners.

Megan has held key leadership roles with the Online Learning Consortium's Accelerate Conference and has contributed to EDUCAUSE’s Courseware Advisory Board, an initiative supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. As a 2024 Teach Access Fellow, Megan advocates for inclusive and accessible learning experiences for all learners. Her co-edited book "The Multidisciplinary Instructional Designer," explores how cross-disciplinary skills can enhance an instructional designer’s abilities.