Design for Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorders and Design:
Towards a Greater Understanding in Research and Practice, 2011-ongoing

This report is a result of a multidisciplinary collaborative effort by Michael Singer Studio and Dr. Matthew Goodwin of Northeastern University and the MIT Media Lab. The goal of the project is to contribute to ongoing efforts in developing the relationship between Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and design for educational spaces and to spur further activities and innovation in the field. Specifically, the effort focuses on classrooms for those with ASD and associated individual learning stations. The project team completed in-depth research of published materials, conducted numerous site visits and observations with ASD students and caregivers, and analyzed comprehensive staff surveys. The team then developed a series of design guidelines that take into consideration particular sensory related issues faced by those with ASD, such as light, sound, spatial perception, color and sources of distractions. The report identifies a series of follow up projects for further development to serve this unique, diverse and growing population.

The project was funded by the National Endowment for the Arts and administered by the Groden Center, Inc.

Artist / Designer: Michael Singer
Clinical Researcher: Dr Matthew Goodwin
Singer Studio Project Manager and Prime Researcher: Jonathan Fogelson
Ethicist: Dr Robin Fiore, PhD
Research Assistants: Daniella Aube at the Groden Center and Jean Deprey at the MIT Media Lab