<p><span class="p-body">Ask any educator, teaching children with ADHD has its challenges. However, this didn’t dissuade <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-professional-writing.html">MS in Professional Writing</a> student Mark Gurke from taking the challenge head-on with his NYU SPS Capstone Fair project.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">For his project, he decided to complete a 'product design' thesis, researching and designing an educational game to help teach children with ADHD time management skills. His project delves into educational theory, assistive technology, and game design through the lens of supporting his target audience: children with ADHD. His thesis project explores the design process, limitations, and potential impact of this educational game. </span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Gurke illustrated how the Hybrid Educational and Assistive Technology Model Application (HEAT-MA) can be creatively used to address time-perception ability (TPA) deficits in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (Ch-ADHD). HEAT-MA merges educational gaming with time-assistive Devices (TADs), integrating specially adapted clocks, calendars, and planners into an interactive gaming environment.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">With Academic Director Kristine Rodriguez Kerr serving as faculty advisor, Gurke's thesis explored the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of the HEAT-MA, drawing on cognitive behavioral therapy principles and the latest developments in educational gaming and time-based data visualization. </span></p> <p><span class="p-body">By addressing the unique challenges of Ch-FADHD, the HEAT-MA aims to enhance TPA and executive functioning skills, thereby fostering better developmental outcomes and independence. The thesis examined the design process, limitations, and potential impacts of the HEAT-MA, and offered insights into the future of educational and assistive technology in addressing the specific needs of Ch-ADHD.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">“This was a compelling product concept that sought to address the unique challenges of children with ADHD in a fun and engaging game environment. Mark seamlessly weaves his firm grasp of the conventions of academic writing with his personal passion for the project,” said Kerr. “The result is a rigorously researched and inspiring thesis. The language is clear, the examples are concrete and specific, and the game design is thoughtful and entertaining.” </span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Gurke ended his project by sharing potential gameplay scenarios and enhanced 3D visualizations for this educational game.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body"><a href="/content/sps-nyu/experience/how-youll-learn/consulting-practicums.html">NYU School of Professional Studies’ Capstone Program</a> provides graduate and undergraduate students the opportunity to apply their classroom learning in complex, real-world environments. The final product exemplifies the volume and depth of theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom. Held each spring, the annual Capstone Fair features projects that embody the School's innovative spirit. We invite students graduating in the spring and fall and summer graduates to participate. Students apply via form, and faculty can nominate individuals or teams.</span></p>