Most of us begin the complex process of learning to recognize facial expression of emotions in infancy. From the faces of parents, siblings, grandparents, or other caregivers, we develop a considerable amount of expertise in this aspect of socialization at an early age. For some children with Autism, Asperger's, or other developmental deficiencies, this is often not the case. Since skill in recognizing facial expression of emotions is important to functioning in a social environment, there is value in helping children develop this skill. But, what if it doesn't develop normally?

FACELAND uses an Amusement Park theme to engage and motivate. 6 “Schools” introduce concepts as “clues” and 11 game-like activities offer practice that is fun!

• Breaking them down into smaller pieces (clues)
• Promoting clue acquisition via spaced repetition
• Checking for understanding of clues using new examples
• Combining clues for “part to whole” learning
• Utilizing instruction that incorporates photos, mirror mimic sessions, and varied interaction

Easy-to-use progress tracking provides data about correct and incorrect responses for each emotion and activity. This data helps teachers understand the specific expressions that a user struggles with and helps target remediation efforts. FACELAND reports "time on task" and assignments can be individualized. Student reports can be printed out for inclusion in portfolio progress evaluation and IEPs.

User requirements: 

• Be willing and able to look at faces on a computer screen
• Have basic mouse skills (no click and drag required)
• Have the intellectual ability to play simple games
• Be willing to look at own face in a mirror