Technology often advances at a dizzying pace. Special-needs students, and other vulnerable and underserved populations, can be left behind.
Michele McKeone, founder of
Autism Expressed, is changing that reality for individuals who struggle with autism. Her company's flagship product, which launched publically in late July, breaks digital literacy into granular bits, making it easier for people with learning challenges.
"We live in a technology-driven society and economy," she says. "These are the life skills that they will need to pursue their independence."
While working as a special-needs teacher, McKeone developed a method for teaching students with autism practical internet skills. Sure, they knew how to look up YouTube videos and play video games, but McKeone taught them to create LinkedIn profiles and communicate virtually. After gaining significant interest from parents and fellow educators, she recreated her instructions digitally.
With Autism Expressed, users work through four levels of instruction (instead of individual lessons) and progress into fluency. The process plays out like a game and a badge is awarded for each level a student masters.
Once they "graduate," the student has a portfolio of projects that demonstrate their abilities to potential employers. Along the way, their performance is tracked, allowing educators and parents to generate progress reports.
"As a teacher, I'm charged with getting my students ready for what happens after high school," says McKeone. "A big part of that is planning your transition and really having data."
Autism Expressed has already gained clients throughout the northeast corridor. The company is a graduate of the
Corzo Center's Creative Incubator and recently
won the Educational Services of America Award, a $20,000 prize from the University of Pennsylvania's Graduate School of Education.
The University City Science Center has partnered with Flying Kite to showcase innovation in Greater Philadelphia through the "Inventing the Future" series.
Source: Michele McKeone, Autism Expressed
Writer: Dana Henry