Altruistic ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) Virtual Reality Game Assisting Neurotypicals Understanding of Autistic People

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioural challenges. Parents of children on the spectrum find it difficult for their kids to communicate with them and other people, which makes it challenging for social interactions. Researchers have introduced different solutions such as Therapy Robot that Teaches Social Skills to Children with Autism. Additionally, Virtual reality was used to teach emotional and social skills to children with autism spectrum disorder. However, these solutions focus only on the person on the spectrum, neglecting the fact that the social challenges that people on the spectrum face are partly due to the lack of understanding on the neurotypicals' end. In this study, the solution introduced focuses on the neurotypical perspective; An advanced and interactive intelligent technology that can educate neurotypical people on how to communicate with people on the spectrum in different scenarios and environments. It also allows the learner to see the consequences of the different interactions from the point of view of a person on the spectrum, be aware of their actions, and fully engage in the scenarios through Virtual Reality (VR). Virtual Reality is a technology that simulates experiences that can be similar to the real world. The project objective was achieved by implementing a storyline game that is VR-based