Understanding the Role of Tech-based Tools for Autistic Children in India

Abstract

Autism is a life-long neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with autism find it difficult to focus their attention, memorize, think and develop social skills compared to their peers. A recent report reveals that currently one in 500 people in India have autism and there is an increase in the prevalence of cases in the past few years. Autism is a serious health issue and should not be overlooked. It is important to create awareness among people to promote better understanding and knowledge of autism. In India, autism has been considered as one of the disabilities under section 2 of the National Trust Act, 1999. There is an increased need to develop evidence-based services in various sectors such as medical, educational, and social. This will be beneficial to minimize the existing gap between children with autism and those who are normal by birth. This review focuses on the various learning tools developed to help children with autism studying in special schools in India. Here, we have revealed the role of technology advancement in building attention, improving social skills, developing verbal communication and flexible thinking in children with autism in India.