[Edu] Thesis Research - Redesigning games to facilitate inclusion

[Lisa Timman]

I am a graduate student at the University of Cincinnati's College of 
Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning.  As a part of my thesis 
research, I am looking for ways to use my background in Graphic 
Design/Visual Communication to facilitate social inclusion for children 
with disabilities.

I am investigating how to redesign an established board game (e.g. 
Candyland/Chutes and Ladders) that will facilitate inclusion in the 
family setting among parents and siblings .  As an alternative to 
redesigning a board game, I am also open to opportunities for designing 
visual devices that can help facilitate play, such as helping a child 
to initiate play, join play circles, etc.

I would love to hear your feedback on my topic and any issues you have 
encountered as a teacher or parent in facilitating play and social 
inclusion for children with disabilities. Either in engaging in board 
game play with children with disabilities, or observing such play, what 
issues have you perceived?  Or, what things have you observed that has 
prohibited children with disabilities from engaging in play with 
typical peers – either being included or initiating play?

Also, if you are aware of any resources or existing studies in this 
area, this would be very helpful!

I look forward to hearing your comments!

Sincerely,
Lisa Timman