Who are we?:
Robotics for the Spectrum is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization seeking to create opportunities for individuals on the spectrum to learn robotics and engage in STEM. Our goal is to partner with high school robotics teams to connect them with autism centers in their local community and help them implement robotics programs specifically designed for individuals on the autism spectrum.


History:
This program was originally created by Team 1138 Eagle Engineering in West Hills, California. Robotics for the Spectrum was formed by members of Team 1138 in order to share this curriculum and help other teams launch their own specialized robotics programs for individuals on the autism spectrum.
Why it’s important:
Children with special needs are frequently barred from enrichment activities, resulting in them having less opportunities to learn about STEM and robotics. Additionally, most pre-existing robotics programs do not have the accommodations or individualization necessary to support students who are neurodivergent. We believe that all individuals, regardless of being on the spectrum or having a learning disability, should have the opportunity to learn robotics. As a result, Robotics for the Spectrum was formed to help teams create and implement programs specifically designed for students on the autism spectrum. Alongside teaching participants invaluable skills such as building, engineering, and programming, these programs develop skills in socialization, communication, group work, fine motor skills, and cognitive processing.
Board Members
The board includes a high school robotics team member (founder), a college student formerly on a robotics team, and a research scientist in the field of biology.