Gaming 4 Good

What is Gaming 4 Good?

Gaming 4 Good (G4G) is an innovative project designed to spark interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) for middle school students with neurodevelopmental disabilities, such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. Funded by the Advancing Informal STEM Learning (AISL) program, G4G uses video game design as a hands-on learning experience to help students develop essential computational thinking (CT) skills and data practices.

Through engaging activities with Nintendo’s Game Builder Garage, students will create and refine their own video games in after-school programs, libraries, and other informal learning spaces. They’ll collaborate with peers, mentors, and experts to build problem-solving, data analysis, and critical thinking skills—foundational skills for success in STEM fields.

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Why Video Game Design?

Video games aren’t just for play—they’re powerful learning tools! By designing their own games, students will:

• Develop essential STEM skills in a fun and interactive way
• Learn problem solving and logic while creating real, playable projects
• Gain confidence in technology and digital tools
• Work in teams, building communication and collaboration skills

Our expert team—including educators, technologists, instructional designers, and accessibility specialists—ensures that the curriculum is inclusive, engaging, and effective for neurodiverse learners.

Participant Incentives – Earn a $100 Gift Card!

Not only will participants gain valuable STEM and game design skills, but they will also receive a $100 gift card as a token of appreciation for their time and participation. We want to ensure that students and families feel valued for their contributions to this exciting learning opportunity.

Students will:

• Get hands-on experience in video game design and computational thinking
• Collaborate with peers and mentors in a supportive learning environment
• Receive a $100 gift card for completing the program

This is a unique opportunity for students to learn, create, and be rewarded for their efforts!

Making an Impact

Supporting STEM Learning for All

G4G is committed to breaking down barriers in STEM education by making learning accessible and exciting. The program will be tested in both rural and urban communities across Missouri and Georgia, providing opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to participate.

A Pathway to Future Careers

Middle school is a crucial time for shaping students’ interests. By introducing STEM concepts through game design, G4G helps students build confidence and curiosity in fields like coding, engineering, and data science—potentially leading to future academic and career opportunities.

Expanding Access and Resources

All curriculum materials developed through G4G will be freely available under a Creative Commons license, meaning educators, community groups, and families can use and adapt them to support more learners.

Project Team

The Gaming 4 Good team is made up of researchers and educators with expertise in STEM education, game design, accessibility, and instructional design:

• Matthew Schmidt, Ph.D. (co-principal investigator) – University of Georgia
• Noah Glaser, Ph.D. – University of Missouri
• Lucas Jensen, Ph.D. – Georgia Southern University
• Amanda Olsen, Ph.D. – University of Missouri
• Ren Rende Mendoza, Ph.D. – University of Nebraska Omaha

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