An immersive learning project is more than just teaching children with autism — it’s helping students learn something about themselves.
The fifth annual Prism Project featured children performing skits, songs and dances to a full crowd Wednesday at Pruis Hall. The children, representing all parts of the autism spectrum, chose popular songs like “Roar” from Katy Perry and “Ring of Fire” from Johnny Cash.
Holden Berlin, a freshman music education major, said working with the kids was originally difficult, but it was all worth the trouble once the students got through to the children.
“The first two weeks were tough, but then after that it got a lot better, and the children even began to help each other out,” Berlin said. “That’s what it’s all about.”
Michael Daehn, an associate professor of theatre education, and Ryan Hourigan, an associate professor of music education, started the project in 2009 to address the lack of physical and creative outlets for children with disabilities in East Central Indiana.
Thirty-five students acted as Ball State Buddies, working with children in the Prism Project for 10 weeks. The students met for two hours Saturday evenings.
“They taught me patience and that everything is funny,” Berlin said. “I am grateful for that.”
Read More
Ball State finishes Charlotte Invitational with 4-1 record
By Rylan Crum / 12 hours agoBall State softball finished the Charlotte Invitational with 4-1 record, bringing the Cardinals' overall record to 7-2.
Building brotherhood and boosting GPAs at Ball State
By Meghan Braddy / 18 hours agoMan 2 Men changes the narrative for men of color at Ball State, offering a sense of community and academic support.
‘Carry forward the torch of liberation’
By WaTasha Barnes Griffin / YesterdayWatasha Barnes Griffin of YWCA Central Indiana stands by the commitment to eliminate racism and empower women in Muncie and Delaware County.
