At this time we are seeking to identifying students with mild to moderate Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) ages 9-11 who may have an interest in a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) pilot program that involves object-oriented programming concepts under the context of creating simple Video Games and Virtual World 3-D Stories during the summer. Students from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply; however, we are particularly interested in identifying students with Asperger’s Syndrome and students from the mild-moderate spectrum of Autism. We are also putting a strong emphasis on getting female students to apply.

The AutiSTEM initiative is a six-eight week program that seeks to engage students with mild to moderate Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) ages 9-11 in hands-on STEM based learning activities that supports the ability to learn to think creatively and reason systematically.  Preliminary data suggests that we can successfully teach children with autism using interactive learning scenarios while still maintaining the benefits found in traditional therapeutic playing scenarios. The research experience is a collaboration between WizKidz Science and Technology Centers and the Georgia Institute of Technology, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering. A workshop is scheduled on Saturday February 5, 2011 from 2pm-3:30 at the Georgia Tech Hotel and Conference Center. The program recruits students interested in the following fields: robotics, computer science, and game design. Additional information along with the program application is available by request at info@wizkidztech.org