Project Name: Project Spectrum - Google SketchUp
Project Type: (Choose one of the following)
7) other
Project Mission/Goal:
1) improve the human spirit
2) increase awareness of the environment and/or address climate change
Project Description:
Google’s 3D modeling software called SketchUp has found some enthusiastic users in kids that are on the autism spectrum. After the launch of Sketchup, Google began hearing from their users that children with autism loved the software. Designed for architects, engineers, game designers, and other professionals, Google’s SketchUp software found a new user base in children on the autism spectrum.
The idea for Project Spectrum originated when Google began getting phone calls and emails from users telling them about how much kids on the autism spectrum were enjoying SketchUp. As the calls kept coming in, Google learned that people with autism tend to be visually and spatially gifted—that, in fact, they think in pictures. When people with these gifts get their hands on powerful, easy-to-use 3D design software like SketchUp, sparks tend to fly. As a result, Google teamed up with experts from the Autism Society of America to form Project Spectrum in order to provide children with autism with software and guidance to help them express their creativity. More than that, Project Spectrum provides children with autism the opportunity to develop important life skills that can help them in their future careers.
Text from:
http://www.google.com/educators/spectrum.html
http://www.superprodigy.com/parentscorner/child-development/googles-proj...
Links and Captions:
http://www.autismcollaborative.org/art/
http://www.google.com/educators/spectrum.html
http://docs.google.com/View?docid=dcdkdbkp_0c88w7ndd
http://pzweb.harvard.edu/Research/Spectrum.htm
Project Details:
Location: United States
Concept/Lead Architect(s)/Designer(s): Google SketchUp Team
Project Architect(s):
Year (s): Launched: November 2007
Client:
User Client: People with Autism
Number of beneficiaries/users:
Project Phase:
Major Funding:
Cost/Cost per unit:
Area (if applicable):
Structural Engineers:
Electrical/Mechanical Engineers:
Contractor/Manufacturer:
Additional Consultants:
Other:
Nominated by Christopher Cronin
