Autistic Voices in Postsecondary Education

This research explores the experiences of autistic students in post-secondary science, engineering, and health programs across Atlantic Canada, focusing on barriers, supports, and opportunities for more inclusive education. Led by researchers at Memorial University, the study aims to involve autistic advisors and community partners, such as the Autism Society of Newfoundland and Labrador (ASNL), in shaping the research, interpreting findings, and sharing knowledge. By highlighting autistic voices, the research seeks to inform practical changes that improve accessibility, belonging, and educational success.

Canadian Science Accessibility Research Collaborative

This research explores how undergraduate students in Physics, Chemistry, and Earth Sciences/Geophysics, including neurodivergent and autistic students, experience learning, accessibility, and support in university courses. Researchers from universities across Canada are working together to examine which teaching practices, course and laboratory environments, accommodations, and institutional supports help students learn, and which may create barriers. The findings will support practical recommendations for making undergraduate science education more accessible and inclusive.

Engaging Indigenous Youth in Natural Sciences and Engineering (NSE)

This research is exploring how programs can meaningfully engage Indigenous high school students and support their exploration of natural sciences and engineering (NSE) education and careers. Using the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE)-NL’s Indigenous Youth Gathering as a case study, the research will examine students’ and chaperones’ experiences, changes in students’ awareness and interest, barriers to participation, and factors that make this type of program effective and accessible. The findings aim to inform similar outreach initiatives and contribute to research-based knowledge.

Summer Student Employment Program - Learning Pathways: Experience and Impact

This research examines how the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE)-NL Summer Student Employment Program (SSEP) influences students’ learning, confidence, workplace skills, and interest in future study or careers in natural sciences and engineering. By gathering perspectives from both students and supervisors, the study aims to better understand how hands-on summer employment and mentorship shape students’ experiences and development. The findings will help WISE-NL strengthen future programming and contribute evidence on how early natural sciences and engineering (NSE) work experiences can support young people’s confidence, career exploration, and continued engagement in these areas.

Virtual Science and Engineering Outreach Partnership

This research examines at how an online physics curriculum support program, coupled with a science career role-model component, supports students in rural and remote schools. We are gathering feedback from students, teachers, and role model presenters to understand what works well, what could be improved, and how the program may influence students’ interest in natural sciences and engineering (NSE). The findings will help improve the overall Science Quest North program and may also offer useful information for other NSE outreach initiatives across Canada.