Game Design Prototype with GIMs: Fostering Neurodiverse Connections through Storytelling

TL;DR

This project explores using Generative Image Models to create a storytelling game that encourages natural social interactions among autistic and neurotypical children, emphasizing creativity and neuro-affirming environments.

Contribution

It introduces a novel game design prototype leveraging GIMs to promote peer connection and creative storytelling in neurodiverse settings.

Findings

GIMs facilitate collaborative story creation among children.

The game design fosters inclusive social interactions.

Preliminary results show increased engagement and peer bonding.

Abstract

This ongoing experimental project investigates the use of Generative Image Models (GIMs) in crafting a picture book creation game designed to nurture social connections among autistic children and their neurotypical peers within a neuro-affirming environment. Moving away from traditional methods that often seek to condition neurodivergent children to socialize in prescribed ways, this project strives to cultivate a space where children can engage with one another naturally and creatively through art and storytelling, free from the pressure to adhere to standard social norms. Beyond merely "story-choosing," the research highlights the potential of GIMs to facilitate "story-creating," fostering peer social connections in a creative and structured collaborative learning experience.