Diseño de juguete didáctico para apoyar el aprendizaje matemático abstracto en niños con TEA

Abstract

CONDITION FOR PUBLICATION OF PROJECT. In Ecuador, children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have difficulties adapting to learning environments, a limited supply of inclusive toys, and barriers to understanding abstract mathematical concepts during the early years of basic education. This project aims to design an inclusive educational toy that reinforces the learning of abstract mathematical concepts, promotes social-emotional skills, and encourages motor development in children aged 4 to 7 with level 1 ASD, based on the value of play as a learning tool. The project was developed using the Design Thinking methodology, applying its five iterative stages. The proposal was empathized, defined, conceived, prototyped, and validated with educational psychologists, therapists, teachers, parents, and children with ASD. The Jardín Mate-mágico toy consisted of a physical component and a digital component; the former was manufactured using 3D printing, cardboard, and electronic components, while the latter consisted of an interactive application. The results showed that the toy promoted fine motor skills, attention, symbolic play, communication, and problem solving. In conclusion, Jardín Mate-mágico facilitates the introduction of abstract mathematical concepts in children with ASD. Keywords: ASD, Mathematical Learning, Inclusive Design, Toy