Approximately 1 in 44 children live with autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Autism manifests differently in every person, but the Autistic Advocacy Organization outlines and explains six common traits that include communicating and socializing differently. Some autistic students have an affinity for technology, and educators can leverage different technologies to encourage socialization and boost learning. Here are 3 ways game-based learning empowers autistic students.
Benefits of game-based learning
1. Provides a safe learning environment
All students need to feel safe to learn. Children with ASD especially thrive on routines that make their surroundings predictable. Game-based play can provide a safe learning environment for these students to acquire new skills. Game-based technologies, including VR educational headsets like Veative, creates interactive distraction and judgment-free learning environments for students to practice new skills and build confidence before trying them in the real world. A 2019 article from NIH assessed 94 studies that demonstrate technology and gamification helps people with ASD learn. Click here to explore more benefits of using Veative VR educational headsets to enhance special education programs.
2. Creates common ground with peers
The rise in popularity of K-12 Esports provides a new avenue for supporting students with autism beyond the classroom. Tapping into some ASD individuals’ affinity for technology makes eSports leagues a great option connect these students to peers through the shared focus of video games. Organizations like Nerd Street Gamers are working to create more inclusive Esports ecosystems for autistic gamers
3. Promotes problem-solving skills
Kids with autism prefer repetitive and known behaviors and environments, which challenges teachers to get kids to break out of their comfort zones to learn. Playing video games and using other EdTech gamification tools like VR headsets can challenge students to become flexible problem-solvers and become stronger lifelong learners.
We’d love to hear from you. Have you incorporated gamification into your classroom? Share with us in the comments below.
Sources:
VARconnection 