Doctoral Colloquium—Challenging Stereotypes Around NeurodiversityThrough Co-Design in a 2D Videogame, The Things Left Behind

Authors

  • Zeinab Parishani University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri USA
  • Noah Glaser University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri USA
  • Eunice (Li) Shangman University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri USA
  • Devon Whalen Devon Whalen / artschoolcopout, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
  • Dana AlZoubi Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi, USA
  • K. Rende Mendoza University of Nebraska in Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
  • Heath Palmer University of Cincinnati,Cincinnati, Ohio, USA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56198/U6C0WYMC2

Keywords:

educational game design, co-design, neurodivergence, game design, immersive learning

Abstract

The Things Left Behind is an interactive, story-driven game that delves into the multifaceted experiences of neurodiverse individuals. Set within a cozy game aesthetic, the game offers players a unique opportunity to explore and understand the world through the lens of neurodiversity. The primary objective of The Things Left Behind is to foster understanding and empathy towards neurodiverse individuals. By immersing players in narratives that reflect the lived experiences of those with neurodivergent traits, the game seeks to challenge perceptions and broaden horizons. Each story vignette, co-designed with neurodiverse individuals, serves as a window into the challenges, joys, and unique perspectives that define neurodiversity. Furthermore, with the entire development team comprising neurodiverse individuals, the game promises an authenticity rarely seen in mainstream media. Through this interactive medium, we aim to not only entertain but also educate, promoting a more inclusive and understanding society.

Downloads

Published

2024-06-03

How to Cite

Parishani, Z., Glaser, N., Shangman, E. (Li), Whalen, D., AlZoubi, D., Mendoza, K. R., & Palmer, H. (2024). Doctoral Colloquium—Challenging Stereotypes Around NeurodiversityThrough Co-Design in a 2D Videogame, The Things Left Behind. Immersive Learning Research - Academic, 1(1), 177–184. https://doi.org/10.56198/U6C0WYMC2

Issue

2024 10th International Conference of the Immersive Learning Research Network (iLRN) Proceedings - Selected Academic Contributions

Section

Conference Proceeedings

Categories

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