Improving online job search platforms for neurodivergent individuals

Contacts: Sabrina Burtscher, Ruthva Sunil Majagi

If you would like to participate, please send an email to jobsearch∂lists.kit.edu

Finding a new occupation often is a complex, long winded process. Companies typically announce vacancies on websites, and leverage online tools to organize application processes. These systems are often the first point of contact for potential applicants, and can pose a barrier for neurodivergent people (e.g., people with ADHS, dyslexia, or autism) depending on interface design and information presentation.

This study aims to compare two different versions of KIT’s Career-Service job search website. One version corresponds to the original website, while the other is a redesign based on previous work.

 

Study process
  1. You send an email to jobsearch∂lists.kit.edu , expressing your interest in participating in the study.
  2. We will send you further information about the study and a link to schedule an appointment.
  3. You book a suitable appointment.
  4. During your appointment at KIT, you will give feedback on two versions of the website. You will interact with both versions, fill out questionnaires about your user experience, and take part in a short interview.

 

What you can expect
  • We want to evaluate the redesign of the career-service portal .
  • Conditions of participation:
    • You are at least 18 years old.
    • You have a (self-)diagnosis of ADHD and/or autism and/or dyslexia/reading and spelling difficulties. Proof of an official diagnosis is not necessary.
    • You are currently looking for a job or have recently been looking for a job.
  • The language of the study is German or English, whichever you prefer.
  • The study will take place at KIT Campus Süd in Building 50.28 (Adenauerring 10, 76131 Karlsruhe).
  • After registering by email, you will receive a link to the DFN scheduler as well as further information.
  • Appointments are available from January 19, 2026, to February 13, 2026, Monday through Friday.
  • The total duration of the study appointment is approximately one hour.
  • The questionnaire data will be collected and evaluated anonymously.
  • The interview will be recorded and put into writing.
  • The recording and the transcript will be stored on secure servers. The transcript will be pseudonymized. After evaluation is complete, the recordings will be deleted. It will not be possible to identify you personally from publications.
  • You will receive €10 remuneration as a thank you.