Neuro-Diversity and Software Development
Talkat CAST 2016 · on Wednesday, 2016-08-10· at 09:00· Fletcher Challenge Theatre (1900), Simon Fraser University Vancouver 515 West Hastings Street Vancouver, BC V6B 5K3·
summary
Presents hard numbers: analysis of 14,866 sentences of pair‑programming dialogue shows senior developers talk less; creativity needs incubation and the quiet between talks. Cites prevalence and test scores (AQ 41 / RIT 155, autism ~1 in 68, ADHD 3–4%, bipolar 2–3%, depression ~20%). Gives concrete accommodations that work: talking tokens, Kanban/visual timetables, noise‑canceling headphones, quiet rooms, adjusted interviews and hiring pilots (SAP, Microsoft programs) and real examples — Temple Grandin and a BBC engineer who customizes his flat — all proving benefits and practicality.
AI-written summary · about
chapters (15)
- 0:00Introduction and background
- 1:40Personal journey to discovery
- 4:10The role of talking in work
- 9:01The value of quiet spaces
- 14:54Embracing team diversity
- 19:11Neurodiversity in technology
- 23:15Helpful autistic traits
- 28:36Visual thinking in design
- 32:50Understanding the challenges
- 36:44Sensory processing and tech
- 42:59ADHD, bipolar, and depression
- 51:38Accommodating diverse minds
- 58:22Managing energy and interaction
- 1:01:54Creating inclusive workplaces
- 1:04:50Audience Q&A
related talks
41mEmbracing Neurodiversity in Tech
01h 20mHow to Maximize the Benefits of Neurodiversity in Software Development & Support Neurodivergent Devs
43mNeurodiversity: A silent disability or a super power?!
28mBreaking barriers: Embracing neurodiversity in tech
45mNeurodiversity in Tech
45mNeurodiversity and Allyship in Tech
39m"How Neurodiversity can be Leveraged for an Excellent ROI"
44mAutism in Tech