Children with ASD – autism spectrum disorder are playing Minecraft in school and the 8-11-year-olds seem like any other children at this point. Like many others, Hamish Ellen would wander around rather than settle down and look how to mine and build the surrounding area. It teaches the children the logic of progression and what steps need to be followed to get where they want to be.
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It is estimated that 1% of the world’s population has ASD, and many find empathy for others and communication a problem. Minecraft requires interaction and it seems that many can work together within the confines of Minecraft mode. Sparkiverse Labs Jessica Koehler has found that despite initial disagreements children are finding ways to work together for the good of the game. At home, for example, Hamish and brother Harrison can put differences aside and play Minecraft together.
It has been shown that in the same way they understand the reasons for actions in Minecraft any children can bring this into the real world. Teachers are given the tools to show the children that the world around them is not as complicated or frightening as they may have thought. Judging by the happy children, it seems the plans are working.