Individuals with Autism and similar learning challenges may experience difficulties understanding or learning abstract words, concepts, and emotions. Although there are some existing strategies for teaching abstract concepts in special education, many individuals experience significant challenges in their academic and social development due to a lack of supportive learning materials.
On average, similar already existing educational materials often contain only about 50 words.
Imagine, if an individual spends their life with only 50 abstract words to use. This limitation can cause tremendous frustration that would adversely impact the quality of their education, communication, and experience of pretty much all social activities.
That is why we have developed one of the most comprehensive vocabularies learning kits for all individuals; especially for individuals with greater needs such as Autism and similar challenges.
- We carefully selected 245 of the most used abstract words in the English language and translated them into simple visuals and explanations that support comprehension. In total, there are 5 decks of word cards. Each deck contains 49 cards.
- We developed our products with a scientific approach. All design elements such as color, typeface, and even the surface texture of the cards are designed to increase the perception and comprehension capacity of individuals with autism and learning disabilities.
- The project took our team over 13 months of research and development to complete. The scientific research results flow from the distillation of many peer-reviewed academic articles as well as via a survey conducted with special education teachers.
Thanks to Abstract Cards, children with healthy development, and individuals with Autism and learning challenges can more effectively understand abstract concepts. For this reason, we invite you to support us, help us reach our goal, and contribute to countless individuals’ communication and social activities in their lives.
In order to tailor these cards to best meet the needs of those who would most benefit, we developed our products based on design and science coupled with our deepened understanding of the critical importance of effective communication.
Design
The design process has been shaped by data obtained from our scientific research. For example, the colors used in the illustrations were chosen specifically for the emotional sensitivity of individuals with autism. The design of illustrations was determined to improve the comprehension capacity of individuals.
During the research, we prepared many templates to test if students can correctly comprehend the illustration in relation to the abstract word. The results indicated which abstract words would be best paired with illustrations and which abstract words would work best paired with photographs. The illustrations are designed based on the principles of semiotics. We use sharp-edged figures and animated colors when it comes to strong, intense emotions. When we need to express soft and comforting feelings, we use curvy and less saturated colors. Basic signs and color symbolism are applied to the design of the cards to optimize the connection between the illustrations and the abstract words.
Moreover, in addition to the design of the images, we didn’t overlook the key element of helping our users to read more effectively. The Accessible font that is applied on the Abstract Cards is specifically designed to improve readability for individuals with learning disabilities.
Accessible Font
Science
It is known that individuals with autism have difficulties in understanding abstract words and that some of them just cannot. Studies have shown that when text and visual aids are presented to individuals with autism, their comprehension and learning capacity will increase by coding the word with visuals. In addition, when examined from a neurological point of view, it has been seen that the region of the brain that enables individuals with autism to learn to understand abstract concepts is affected by pictures and writing presented together. (The information can be found via this link.)
Since individuals with autism are emotionally sensitive. Texture and design elements play a critical role in their learning and understanding processes. The scientific article by Efecan Serin, a member of our team, on what should be considered in the field of design for individuals with autism, can be found at this link. *
Besides the support from scientific articles, field data collection including surveys were needed in developing the accuracy of our products. The topics include: which abstract words are a priority, how to properly categorize these abstract words, the use of colors, the design style of illustrations, and which abstract words should be paired with photographs for clearer explanations. We conducted surveys with Turkish, English, and US private education teachers in order to verify the information. What’s more, the font Accessible Font used on the cards has been developed for the better learning of individuals with autism. You can find the introduction video about this font in the Design section.
Our Team
Hello, we are Efecan Serin and Wanjou Lu. We are two designers who seek solutions to the learning difficulties of people with special needs through design, technology and science. We are passionate about making a difference through scientific research and design. Our team has a strong academic background in communication, as well as extensive work experience in both graphic design and education.
Word List of the Abstract Card Series
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