Involving autism stakeholders in identifying priorities for interventions based on augmented reality

Abstract

Purpose

Literature supports the use of technological tools such as augmented reality, 3 D avatars and mobile devices to improve individuals with autism spectrum disorder skills. Possibilities of including these technological tools in intervention and the critical issues related to intervention design are essential research questions. The aim of the current work is to present an interdisciplinary research study on the design of an autism intervention considering these technologies.

Materials and methods

This study used qualitative evidence and thematic analysis to identify the main design guidelines. A semi-structured interview was administered to a total of twenty participants representing four stakeholder categories: ASD, clinicians, therapists and caregivers. Interviews focussed on three dimensions related to user, technology and environment since they represent a complex system within which the individual using technology is situated.

Results

Thematic analysis of the interviews identified a total of 10 themes considered central to the design of the technological intervention.

Conclusions

Since the application of technology in autism intervention is a relatively new area, the guidelines related to the potential incentives and barriers of the proposed technology are helpful to inform future treatment studies.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• This study highlights the strengths and barriers associated with the use of smartphones and augmented reality in autism spectrum disorder interventions considering the dimensions within which the user using assistive technology is located.

• Strengths and major concerns that emerged are key points to consider during the development of the technological intervention.

• Considering these points can foster the use of technology within the intervention and promote its effectiveness.

Keywords:

• Autism spectrum disorder
• augmented reality
• technological intervention
• mobile device
• guidelines design

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

The datasets generated and/or analysed during the current study are not publicly available but they are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.