MFA DRI Thesis
Advancing Inclusive Education: Co-Designing Learner-centered Tools with Children to Foster Neurodiverse Collaboration
Abstract
My research journey in inclusive education was inspired by hands-on experience as a registered behavior technician working with young autistic clients and their families. This experience led me to explore different perspectives in disability research and design, including the medical, social, and neurodiversity models of disability. My focus now embraces a neurodiversity model, driving the development of innovative tools co-designed with kids and educators. Using a game-based approach, these tools aim to support socialization and learning for all children, with a focus on including neurodiverse children. I am also exploring how these tools can enhance psychological and behavioral learning, particularly fostering collaboration between neurodiverse and neurotypical children.
Keywords
Design-based Research, Inclusiveness, Participatory Design, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Child-centered Learning, Storytelling, Peer Relationships, Educational Games, Socialization and Collaboration
Two players collaborate through individual choices to equally contribute to the story. Image, Yiqi Xiao.
Players create game elements and storylines by drawing, which are used in later gameplay. Image, Yiqi Xiao.
Players select elements generated from their drawings that best match their imagination. Image, Yiqi Xiao.
A digital storybook created by both players is instantly generated and can be printed as a physical book for future use. Image, Yiqi Xiao.
A digital storybook created by both players is instantly generated and can be printed as a physical book for future use. Image, Yiqi Xiao.