Spark Center for Innovation in Learning | Educational Outreach and Student Services

The Spark Center for Innovation in Learning (SCIL) advances AI-driven technologies that empower neurodivergent learners across their educational journeys—from early childhood to career readiness. Through its Global AI Competition and cross-disciplinary partnerships, SCIL fosters inclusive, effective, and transformative learning experiences that shape the future of education.

This work is in alignment with and in service to the ASU Charter, which asks us to measure success not by whom we exclude, but whom we include. SCIL works across the university to provide interdisciplinary innovation and research that expands access and inclusion for all learners.

What We Do

Current news

Student teams create AI tools to help neurodivergent learners

When Stevie Cervantes was a first-year student at Arizona State University, she shied away from using AI.

“AI was everywhere and my friends were asking me, ‘Oh, do you use ChatGPT?’ And I hadn’t even explored it because I was afraid I would be accused of cheating,” she said.

But this fall, Cervantes, now a fourth-year student majoring in computer systems engineering, dove into AI. She was among more than 90 students who entered the Arizona AI Challenge and her team is one of two finalists chosen to participate in the next level — the Global AI Challenge.

ASU+GSV Summit brings experts together to discuss AI, education equity

Arizona State University President Michael Crow and other university leadership joined education and learning experts from around the globe at the ASU+GSV education technology summit in San Diego.

Now in its 17th year, the summit is part of a collaboration between ASU and Global Silicon Valley that explores ways education can create more equitable access to the future for all. This year’s theme is “The Power of Fusion.”