Hacking Autism

It's the first official Hacking Autism blog post... and welcome to it! 

The Hacking Autism concept is really cool we know, but we also know that you are going to be looking for very specific details on how to get involved... this "hello world" blog post will try to outline some possible first steps for you to take as part of the Hacking Autism community. We've decided to write this post as an FAQ to help you get oriented.

What is Hacking Autism?
Hacking Autism is 3+ years in the making. It was started deep within the bowels of HP and became an official Autism Speaks program in late 2011. Hacking Autism is a collaborative project that aims to develop, refine and develop technologies that can help those on the spectrum. We look at technology through 4 lenses - entertainment, general education, therapeutic and applied technologies - each has a different purpose and benefit. Basically, we believe that technology has the power to change the lives of those on the spectrum today. 

One thing to note is that Hacking Autism is completely platform independent - we believe that not only does touch technology have merit, but that we should broaden our definition of technology to include websites, desktop, video game platforms like Kinect and Wii, ARGs, and more broadly, any tech  you can think of... like a Marshmellow Cannon.

What apps have already been developed for Hacking Autism?
Mihi is a simple app that was developed at the Hackathon in October 2011. It allows users to learn different emotions on the iPad. We have several other apps on the way including social story apps and several other ideas that are all coming together nicely! Check the blog for updates!

I'm a developer, how can I get involved?
Let us ask you a question instead... what platform do you develop for? Whatever the answer is, we need your help to hack autism! Visit the idea gallery in the discussion area to post and review ideas... then apply your mad skillz to developing a solution.

I'm a person on the spectrum, how can I get involved?
Visit the idea gallery and post ideas, or share apps that you love. submit ideas for new apps or create your own solution by creating a group. Talk to us if you need help getting started!

I'm a parent and/or caregiver, how can I get involved?
Just like those on the spectrum, visit the idea gallery and post ideas, or share apps that you love. submit ideas for new apps or create your own solution by creating a group. Talk to us if you need help getting started!

I noticed the site has badges and points, what are those for?
We're not sure yet... but earn as many as you can and we promise to make it worth your time...

Why is this blog post titled "Hello World?"
Wait, if you are asking that, you need to up your "geek" factor! Start by reading all about "Hello World" on Wikipedia.

via hackingautism.org