Designing for Neurodiversity in Academia: Addressing Challenges and Opportunities in Human-Computer Interaction

Nathalie Alexandra Penglin Tcherdakoff*, Grace Jane Stangroome, Ashlee Milton, Catherine Holloway, Marta E. Cecchinato, Antonella Nonnis, Tessa Eagle, Dena Al Thani, Hwajung Hong, Rua Mae Williams

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Academia is primarily structured around neurotypical norms, posing significant challenges for neurodivergent academics, who often face additional barriers that hinder their success. This Special Interest Group (SIG) examines the experiences of neurodiverse researchers in Human-Computer Interaction and explores how HCI can contribute to more inclusive academic environments. By bringing together HCI researchers, neurodiverse academics, and allies, this SIG aims to develop strategies for a more neurodivergent-inclusive, affirming, and supportive academic landscape. Since enhanced well-being can boost productivity, addressing these challenges may unlock greater research output and contributions, particularly by harnessing the talent and creativity of neurodivergent individuals. We will focus on challenges faced across career stages and roles (from students to senior academics, research to teaching staff), and explore the role of technology in academia — assessing how it alleviates and exacerbates barriers. Additionally, we aim to critically examine how policies and governance within the HCI community impact neurodiversity inclusion.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationExtended Abstracts Of The 2025 Chi Conference On Human Factors In Computing Systems, Chi 2025
PublisherAssociation for Computing Machinery
Number of pages5
ISBN (Electronic)9798400713958
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 26 Apr 2025
Event2025 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems, CHI EA 2025 - Yokohama, Japan
Duration: 26 Apr 20251 May 2025

Publication series

NameConference on Human Factors in Computing Systems - Proceedings

Conference

Conference2025 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems, CHI EA 2025
Country/TerritoryJapan
CityYokohama
Period26/04/251/05/25

Keywords

  • Academia
  • Hci
  • Neurodivergence
  • Neurodiversity

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