Virtual Placement for Neurodiverse Students
Experience scope
Categories
Communications Humanities Media Social sciencesSkills
teamwork time management communication professionalism dependabilityThis program provides an opportunity for neurodiverse students to enhance both academic and professional skills in an empowering learning environment.
The placement is a key part of the program where students build on their professional skills and receive valuable mentorship through real-world employment experience. In partnering with this program, the industry partner benefits from working with students with a unique perspective who are reliable, focused, supportive and empathetic, and who possess a variety of soft skills. It also provides the industry partner with exposure to the benefits of neurodiversity in the workplace, reinforcing the importance of diversity, inclusion and belonging.
Students are required to complete 112 hours of placement between September and December.
Learners
- Students will be available for up to 112 hours of work across 14 weeks (approx. 6-8 hours a week)
- Students will be available virtually through Skype , Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Webex and/or email
- The industry partner will be supported by the Field Placement Coordinator prior to the start of the project to coordinate all details, expectations and paperwork
- Throughout the duration of the project, students will be provided with ongoing direct supervision by Field Placement Coordinator; Field Placement Coordinator will also liaise with industry partner should issues arise
Project Examples
Requirements
Some examples of projects students could work on would be:
- Assist with virtually supporting clients
- Assist with community program planning
- Assist with marketing
- Assist with creating social media content
- Other duties as assigned – dependent on project
- Data entry
Some examples of ideal industries for partnership include:
- Human/Community Services
- Marketing & Social Media
- Environmental
- Advocacy
- Culinary
- Library Services
- Retail
- Childcare
- Health and Wellness
- Administrative
Additional company criteria
Companies must answer the following questions to submit a match request to this experience:
Be available for a quick phone/virtual call with the instructor to initiate your relationship and confirm your scope in an appropriate fit for the internship
Provide a dedicated contact who will act as the student's primary supervisor over the duration of the virtual placement. A secondary contact should be provided as a backup.
Provide ongoing support and mentorship to students throughout the internship. Students will interact virtually with their primary contact no less than once a week.