For those students with autism who have the technical abilities, but not the social skills to negotiate a work setting, there is a a very interesting model at a non-profit center in Dallas, housed at the Southern Methodist University. Called the NonPareil Institute, about 80 adults with autism are learning how to design and program apps for iPads, iPhones and Androids: http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9225562/Institute_s_mobile_apps_are_built_by_hands.
This program was started by three fathers of children with autism who were concerned about how their children might be able to be employed considering their challenges. Now these adults have already developed one app for the market and have two more in the pipeline. The parents are currently hoping to build a campus for the program. It is so gratifying to acknowledge that while different, people with autism have skills that can help them be contributing members of society and not just consumers. It is a entirely new way to view autism. Finally, we seem to be getting somewhere in letting the world know that unique capabilities are a strength. Looks very exciting and such potential!
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Jennifer Sullivan, Executive Director
Jennifer Sullivan began teaching at Morgan Autism Center in 1977, first as a teacher, then Assistant Program Director, then, in 2000, she became Executive Director. She was instrumental in developing the Adult Program for the Morgan Autism Center and has expanded the school program to include outreach and consultation opportunities with other community resources, school districts, and agencies,. Ms. Sullivan is also an adjunct professor at Santa Clara University, a member of SCU’s Autism Advisory Board, and San Jose Unified School District’s Autism Advisory Committee.
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Hey! Check out my new company www.myprogrambook.org We have been developing apps for children with developmental delays for ipads and iphones. We have developed several apps targeting receptive language, same vs. different, yes vs no, and many more to come. Check us out and let us know what you think!
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