Exploring computer-based work environments to better understand what affordances improve experiences for self-identified neurodivergent people.
Puchle, Andrew (2026) Exploring computer-based work environments to better understand what affordances improve experiences for self-identified neurodivergent people. [MRP]
| Item Type: | MRP |
|---|---|
| Creators: | Puchle, Andrew |
| Abstract: | This MRP examines how the design choices of workplace Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom, make it harder for neurodiverse workers to complete tasks, focus, and connect with others. Design theories that assist in framing how people use these platform features include: cognitive load theory (Sweller, 1988), shared intentionality theory (Lee & Coppin et al., 2022), and inclusive design theory (Spinuzzi, 2005; Sarmiento-Pelayo, 2015; Holmes, 2018). Natural labs document online workarounds, and semi-structured interviews reveal seven primary themes: sensory overload, notification architecture, social masking and turn-taking, status surveillance, information architecture and navigation, executive function and customization, and personalization and identity. Two models were adapted to aid in visualizing the impact on neurodivergent employees. The spatial-topological model demonstrates shared intentionality through time-synchrony, spatial-topological synchrony, and the production of shared knowledge. The flow-perceived effort model evaluates the effects on attention and cognitive load. These models show that ICT features designed without neurodivergent inclusion in the design process tend to cluster in areas with high demand and limited alignment. Cognitive overload and losing focus are common challenges in this area. To identify solutions, participants collaborated on co-designing features that included speaking queues, notification batching systems, controls for customizing different senses, customizable navigation architectures, and identity representation features. These features highlight that the issues encountered are not a result of individual shortcomings but rather stem from design decisions that can be corrected. |
| Contributors: | Contribution Name Email Thesis advisor Coppin, Peter pcoppin@faculty.ocadu.ca Thesis advisor Barter, David david.barter@ocadu.ca |
| Date: | 6 May 2026 |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | neurodivergence, inclusive design, co-design, affordance theory, cognitive load theory, information and communication technologies, participatory design, shared intentionality, video conference tools |
| Divisions: | Graduate Studies > Inclusive Design |
| Date Deposited: | 07 May 2026 16:00 |
| Last Modified: | 12 May 2026 18:56 |
| URI: | https://openresearch.ocadu.ca/id/eprint/5123 |
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