CONCEPT
This streaming service aims to assist people with autism in watching films by using
advanced technologies such as binaural audio and machine learning algorithms. This
application has the potential to provide a more engaging and enjoyable film-watching
experience for individuals with autism.
Its autism-friendly interface allows users to create a profile that captures their personal
information and any specific requirements or accommodations they need. Then, the user
could choose a film from the application's library, which would have a wide range of films
suitable for individuals with autism.
Once the user has selected a film, the application will use binaural audio technology to
create a more immersive audio experience. This technique would capture sounds from
different angles, creating a 3D sound that can help individuals with autism by providing a
more realistic and engaging audio experience.
The AI algorithms would then analyze the user's profile and track their behaviour while
watching the film, monitoring their heart rate, facial expressions, and other physical cues to
determine their engagement or stimulation. Based on this analysis, the application would
adjust the audio and visual experience to suit the user's preferences and needs. For
instance, if the AI detects that the user is becoming anxious or overwhelmed, the application
might adjust the audio and visual experience to be more calming and soothing. Alternatively,
if the AI detects that the user is becoming bored or disengaged, the application might
introduce more stimulating audio and visual elements to keep the user engaged.
Additionally, the application could provide previews of each scene before it plays, with a
short description of the sensory features of the scene and any relevant notes from a sensory
expert. This would help users anticipate sensory input and adjust their settings accordingly.
The application will provide accommodations and adjustments to help users with sensory
processing difficulties, such as adjusting the film's volume, brightness, or contrast in real
time based on the user's preferences. Finally, the application will track the user's feedback
on their sensory experience. This information could be used to adjust the settings for future
viewings or suggest films with similar sensory characteristics that the user might enjoy.
In conclusion, an AI application that assists people with autism in watching films has the
potential to be very helpful. By customising the audio and visual experience based on the
user's preferences and needs and providing personalised sensory settings and
accommodations, the application could create a more engaging and enjoyable experience
for individuals with autism. The ability to provide feedback and track progress could also help
users improve their sensory processing skills over time. Overall, this is a promising concept
that could significantly enhance the film-watching experience for individuals with autism.
Autism
Nick Walker: “Autism is a genetically-based human neurological variant. The current
evidence indicates that the central distinction is that autistic brains are characterised by
particularly high levels of synaptic connectivity and responsiveness. This tends to make the
autistic individual’s subjective experience more intense and chaotic than that of non-autistic
individuals: on both the sensorimotor and cognitive levels, the autistic mind tends to register
more information, and the impact of each bit of information tends to be both stronger and
less predictable.
Despite underlying neurological commonalities, autistic individuals are vastly different from
one another. Some autistic individuals exhibit exceptional cognitive talents. However, in the
context of a society designed around the sensory, cognitive, developmental, and social
needs of non-autistic individuals, autistic individuals are almost always disabled to some
degree — sometimes quite obviously, and sometimes more subtly.”
https://uxdesign.cc/designing-for-autistic-people-overview-of-existing-research-d6f6dc20710
e
MENTAL DISABILITIES AND FILM
Give someone without a disability the experience that someone with has to inspire empathy.
Watch only murders in the building (deaf person experience). Microsoft new controllers.
Designing games according to people with autism.
Having the ability to tailor down different scales of sound, sights, touch, smell, facial
recognition and experience a different spectrum of disability.
In order to understand the different perspectives of autism, it helps to know the difference
between “disorder” and “disability.”
A disorder is a health condition that affects the typical function of the mind or body.
Specifically, a mental disorder involves cognitive, emotional, and behavioural issues.
From a medical perspective, autism is a mental disorder. This is due to the neurological,
psychological, and social impacts it can have on one’s life, says Keischa Pruden, LCMHCS,
LCAS, CCS, psychotherapist and founder of Pruden Counseling Concepts.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source, a
disability is “any condition of the body or mind that makes it more difficult for the person with
the condition to do certain activities and interact with the world around them.”
Autism is considered to be a disability. That’s because its symptoms can make it difficult for
a person to navigate neurotypical norms.
https://www.healthline.com/health/autism/is-autism-a-disability#medical-perspectiven
→ find patterns within different disabilities.
→ find studies that show the lack of empathy and consideration - that would explain the
issue.
Check the slide from the audio binaural presentation for interface ideas.
AUTISM
The neurological illness known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterised by
issues with social interaction, communication, and repetitive activities. In the United States, it
is thought to afflict about 1 in 68 kids. Communication, comprehending social signs and
emotions, and participating in repeated activities or interests can be challenging for those
with ASD. Moreover, they could struggle with sensory processing issues or sensory
sensitivity. While there is no known cure for autism, early intervention can assist those who
are impacted by the condition achieve better results.
Autism, commonly referred to as autism spectrum disorder or pervasive developmental
disorder, is a condition that alters a person’s social interactions and perception of their
environment. It is a neurological condition that impacts behaviour, social interaction, and
communication. Autism spectrum disorders can make it difficult for a person to express
themselves and to interpret social signs and relationships. Also, they could struggle with
regular tasks like getting dressed or paying attention to instructions. Knowing more about
autism can help us support those who are impacted by it and better understand their needs
so they can lead more satisfying lives.
https://littlelioness.net/2023/03/25/understanding-autism-everything-you-need-to-know-about
-this-complex-condition/
→ academic star Temple Grandin
To Siri with Love - Book Summary
From the author of the viral New York Times op-ed column "To Siri with Love" comes a
collection of touching, hilarious, and illuminating stories about life with a thirteen-year-old boy
with autism that hold insights and revelations for us all.
When Judith Newman shared the story of how Apple's electronic personal assistant, Siri,
helped Gus, her son who has autism, she received widespread media attention and an
outpouring of affection from readers around the world. Basking in the afterglow of media
attention, Gus told anyone who would listen, "I'm a movie star."
Judith's story of her son and his bond with Siri was an unusual tribute to technology. While
many worry that our electronic gadgets are dumbing us down, she revealed how they can
give voice to others, including children with autism like Gus - a boy who has trouble looking
people in the eye, hops when he's happy, and connects with inanimate objects on an
empathetic level.
AI AND AUTISM
AI application that assists people with autism in watching films. Here's how it could work:
Sensory Analysis: The application could use machine learning algorithms to analyse a film's
sensory characteristics, including sound, lighting, and camera movements. It would then
classify each scene based on its sensory features and assign a rating that corresponds to
the intensity of sensory input.
Personalised Settings: Next, the user could set their preferences based on their individual
sensory needs. For instance, they could choose to receive notifications when a particular
type of sensory input is about to occur, such as a sudden change in lighting or a loud noise.
Scene Previews: To help users anticipate sensory input, the application could provide
previews of each scene before it plays. These previews could include a short description of
the sensory features of the scene, as well as any relevant notes from the filmmaker or a
sensory expert.
Accommodations and Adjustments: The application could also provide accommodations and
adjustments to help users with sensory processing difficulties. For example, it could adjust
the volume, brightness, or contrast of the film in real time based on the user's preferences.
Progress Tracking: Finally, the application could track the user's progress and provide
feedback on their sensory experience. This information could be used to adjust the settings
for future viewings or to suggest films with similar sensory characteristics that the user might
enjoy.
Overall, this AI application could be a powerful tool to help people with autism watch films by
providing a personalised, sensory-friendly viewing experience.
BINAURAL AUDIO
Binaural audio is a technique that creates a 3D audio experience for the listener by using
two microphones to capture sound from different directions, simulating the way the human
ears perceive sound in the real world. The recorded sound is then played back through
headphones, with each ear receiving a slightly different sound wave, which creates a sense
of spatial depth and directionality.
Binaural audio can be used for a variety of purposes, including music, film, and virtual reality
experiences. It is particularly effective in creating an immersive experience for the listener,
as it can create the illusion of sounds coming from specific locations in space and can even
simulate the movement of sounds around the listener's head. Binaural audio can be created
using specialised equipment, such as in-ear microphones or a dummy head with
microphones embedded in the ears, or through software processing of standard stereo audio
recordings.
Binaural audio has been studied for its potential benefits in helping people with autism.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and
behaviour. Sensory processing difficulties are common among individuals with autism, and
this can include hypersensitivity to sounds.
Binaural audio can be used to provide a calming and soothing sensory experience for
individuals with autism. Some studies have found that listening to binaural beats, which are a
specific type of binaural audio that uses specific frequencies to create a rhythmic beat, can
help reduce anxiety and improve mood in individuals with autism.
Additionally, binaural audio can be used to create a more immersive and engaging sensory
experience for individuals with autism. This can be particularly beneficial for those who have
difficulty with social interaction, as it can provide a safe and predictable environment that can
be customised to the individual's preferences.
While more research is needed, binaural audio shows promise as a potential tool for helping
individuals with autism manage sensory difficulties and improve their overall well-being.
https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/binaural-sound#:~:text=Binaural%20sound%20i
s%20stereo%20audio,means%20%22having%20two%20ears.%22
https://files.rave.aula.education/eb30899e743ee1de1a69ca997a28b7a7binaural_sound.pdf
APPLICATION
Should it be a plugin or directly built into the platform so it could also sensibilise
others?
→ Every April Autism Speaks celebrates World Autism Month beginning with United
Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day on April 2. Throughout the month,
we focus on coming together in unity and collaboration by fostering worldwide
support, sharing stories and connecting to create a more inclusive world.
The primary goal of this application would be to enhance the film-watching experience for
individuals with autism by creating a more immersive and personalized experience. The
application would use AI algorithms to analyze the user's behaviour and preferences and
customize the audio and visual experience accordingly.
Here's how the application would work:
User profile creation: The user would be required to create a profile when they first start
using the application. The profile would capture information such as the user's age, gender,
language preferences, and any specific requirements or accommodations they might need.
Film selection: The user would then be able to choose a film from the application's library.
The application would have a wide range of films that are suitable for individuals with autism.
Binaural audio generation: Once the user has selected a film, the application would use
binaural audio technology to create a more immersive audio experience. Binaural audio is a
technique that uses two microphones to capture sounds from different angles, which creates
the impression of 3D sound. This technique can help individuals with autism by providing a
more realistic and engaging audio experience.
AI-based customization: The AI algorithms would analyse the user's profile and track their
behaviour while watching the film. This would include monitoring the user's heart rate, facial
expressions, and other physical cues to determine how engaged or stimulated they are.
Based on this analysis, the application would adjust the audio and visual experience to suit
the user's preferences and needs.
For example, if the AI algorithms detect that the user is becoming anxious or overwhelmed,
the application might adjust the audio and visual experience to be more calming and
soothing. Alternatively, if the AI detects that the user is becoming bored or disengaged, the
application might introduce more stimulating audio and visual elements to keep the user
engaged.
User feedback: Finally, the application would allow the user to provide feedback on their
experience. This feedback could include ratings for the film, suggestions for improvements,
and other comments.
In conclusion, an application that uses AI and binaural audio to enhance the film-watching
experience for individuals with autism has the potential to be very helpful. By customising the
audio and visual experience based on the user's preferences and needs, the application
could create a more engaging and enjoyable experience for individuals with autism.
How much can you alter a film without causing filmmakers to be upset with that idea?
→ ethical problems
THE INDUSTRY AND AUTISM
“The film industry has increasingly focused on autism in recent years, with the goal of
creating greater awareness and understanding of the disorder. Autism, or Autism Spectrum
Disorder (ASD), is a neurological condition that affects a person's ability to communicate,
socialize, and interact with others.
There have been a number of films that have portrayed characters with autism, including
"Rain Man" (1988), "The Accountant" (2016), and "Music" (2021). These films have helped
to increase awareness of autism and the challenges faced by people on the autism
spectrum. In addition to films that portray characters with autism, there have also been
documentaries that focus on the experiences of people with autism, such as "Autism in
Love" (2015) and "Life, Animated" (2016). These films provide a more personal and intimate
look at the lives of people with autism and their families.
The film industry has also played a role in promoting autism awareness and acceptance
through various initiatives. For example, the Autism Society of America has partnered with
film studios to create sensory-friendly screenings for individuals with autism. These
screenings provide a more comfortable and accepting environment for people with autism to
enjoy movies.
Overall, the film industry has played an important role in raising awareness and
understanding of autism, and has helped to promote greater acceptance and inclusion of
people on the autism spectrum in society.”
Since 2007, AMC Theatres and the Autism Society have offered screenings of “sensory
friendly films” for individuals with autism and others to enjoy in a safe and accepting
environment. Dim lights are left on, the sound is turned down, and families with special
dietary needs are able to bring their own snacks from home. Audience members can move
around, dance, walk, talk or sing – without worry that someone will complain or be disturbed.
According to the Autism Society website, the idea behind “sensory friendly films” occurred in
2007, when Marianne Ross took her young daughter Meaghan to a matinee at a local
theater in Elkridge, Maryland. Other patrons complained that Meaghan was dancing, twirling
and jumping up and down during the film – so the manager asked them to leave.
https://proaupair.com/blog/in-partnership-with-autism-society-sensory-friendly-film-screening
s-available-at-amc-theatres
https://www.amctheatres.com/programs/sensory-friendly-films
—> AMC theatres On Demand?
‘Barbican Cinema and the Centre for Film and Ethics, Queen Mary University, London are
pleased to present Autism and Cinema: An Exploration of Neurodiversity; a season that
debates new ideas arising from the relationship between autism and cinema.
Taking place in September, the programme brings together a diverse selection of films,
ranging from documentary to animation, and genre-twisting fiction to experimental
filmmaking, from within the autistic community; it asks how the language of cinema can be
challenged and changed by autistic perspectives.
The season opens with a free screening of Temple Grandin (US 2010, Dir Mick Jackson), a
biopic of the accomplished autistic thinker and advocates who transformed the cattle farming
industry.
The film attempts to visualise for the audience Temple’s inner world – one in which sights
and sounds are accentuated, and thoughts run ‘like a VCR tape.’ The screening will be
followed by an exclusive filmed interview with Temple Grandin, discussing the film and her
experience with autism.
Further highlights include the documentary Life Animated (US 2016, Dir Roger Ross
Williams), which examines the place of animation in the evolving mind map of a child, where
the medium of film becomes a toolkit and a shared vocabulary; and the cult film Mulholland
Drive (US 2001, Dir David Lynch), set in the winding roads and dark recesses of Hollywood,
the curators suggest the film steps beyond neurotypical ways of comprehending (such as
reading body language) and breaks convention by asking viewers to experience the story
unbound by linear structure.
All screenings are Relaxed Screenings, which means they have higher lighting levels and
lower sound, as well as reduced seating capacity. Audiences are free to come and go as
they please and there is also a chill-out space - if needed. The screenings also include live
introductions and post-screening discussions involving members of the autistic community,
artists, activists, and academics.
Janet Harbord, Professor of Film at Queen Mary, University of London, comments:
‘This programme explores the rich and multifaceted nature of an autistic apprehension of the
world by looking at autism rather than at it. The autistic capacity for visual thinking, for a
heightened attention to the object-world, and for bringing into the foreground what is often
lost to the background, characterise this series of films, demonstrating an historical affinity
between autism and cinema.’
https://www.barbican.org.uk/our-story/press-room/autism-and-cinema-an-exploration-of-neur
odiversity-0#:~:text=A%20cinema%20reflective%20of%20autism,of%20being%20in%20the
%20world.
Autism portrayal in films:
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2021/sep/15/why-do-they-have-to-be-brilliant-the-problem-
of-autism-in-the-movies
Working in the film industry (maybe this plugin could also impact future employments?):
‘Sadly, however, a career in the arts or the film industry is not something many people with
learning disabilities have the chance to pursue. Less than 5 percent of disabled people work
in the UK film industry, and this has likely been reduced by the effects of the pandemic.’
→ The lack of neurodiverse people in the film industry results in such films being made.
https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/learning-disability-autistic-film-sia-b1865379.html
Oska Bright Film Festival is the world’s leading festival for films made by or featuring people
with learning disabilities or autism.
The festival is managed and delivered by a team of ten learning disabled artists, all
passionate about film and exhibition. It is presented by the award winning learning disability
art organisation Carousel, which brings learning disability arts to the front.
https://oskabright.org/
This screening celebrates the talents of learning-disabled and autistic women in film, in front
of, and behind the camera. Oska Bright are proud to be using the F-Rating, which is
designed to support and promote women and redress the imbalance of women in the film
industry. With stories about the pressure of the media, love and things that annoy us, shining
a light on the creativity and passion of these filmmakers.
Oska Bright Film Festival is the world’s leading festival for films made by or featuring people
with learning disabilities or autism. With less than 5% of disabled people working in the UK
film industry, Oska Bright Film Festival is driven to make change happen. Working
internationally with industry partners and funded by the BFI, our team produces the BAFTA
qualifying Oska Bright Film Festival, promotes accessible screenings, runs training for
venues and develops skills for aspiring filmmakers. The films are selected and programmed
by a team of ten learning disabled artists. Oska Bright Film Festival puts people with learning
disabilities or autism where they should be, on the big screen.
https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/oska-bright-film-festival?rq=oska%20bright
Carousel champions the rights of artists with a learning disability to flourish and be
celebrated. In film, music, performance and digital arts, in our partnerships and training,
Carousel is dedicated to making learning disabled creativity a valued part of the cultural
landscape.
In the UK, cuts in funding to their support services have left people with learning disabilities
facing greater isolation and alienation than ever before. Carousel brings those people
together, giving them a creative platform where they can tell their stories, learn new skills,
grow confidence, make friends and succeed as artists. We’re here to provide a bridge
between people with a learning disability and the wider community, ensuring their creativity
can be valued and celebrated.
https://carousel.org.uk/aboutus
Autistic people in the film industry:
https://www.cbr.com/autistic-people-film-tv-you-should-know/
—> companies that make autism-friendly screenings, how many people go, how regularly,
the money to be made?
Any charity or is it is a charity? What charities? Write about the technical side, when did
autism-friendly screening begin, was there any need for it before, and where is it going?
Autism-friendly screenings:
Autism-friendly screenings are sometimes called relaxed or sensory-friendly screenings.
Adjustments are made to reduce stress and sensory input, such as low lighting and sound,
freedom to move and staff trained in autism awareness.
At least once a month ODEON, Cineworld, Vue, Showcase, Picturehouse and Everyman
cinemas show popular films in an autism-friendly environment, and independent cinemas
can use our free training to host their own.
We hope these screenings will help more people with sensory sensitivity enjoy the cinema
and for many, provide a transition into regular screenings.
Anyone who feels they can benefit from the adjustments is welcome and no proof of
diagnosis is needed. Your loved ones or support staff are welcome too.
https://dimensions-uk.org/get-involved/campaigns/autism-friendly-cinema-screenings/
Autism-friendly adjustments are designed to make the cinema more inclusive and accessible
for people with sensory sensitivities and others who can benefit.
Adjustments include:
Our training helps cinema staff understand autism and how to help autistic guests really
enjoy their cinema experience. It also lists the key adjustments needed for a performance to
be labelled as ‘autism friendly.’ These include:
Lights left on low
Sound turned down
No adverts or trailers
Staff trained in autism understanding
Disabled access
Chill out zone, where available
Bring your own food and drink
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n--LWYB3acY&t=31s&ab_channel=DimensionsUK
Autism-friendly screenings training:
Our autism-friendly screenings training was produced using over eight years of experience
working with cinemas to host regular sensory-friendly screenings. We consulted autism
experts and cinema industry experts to make sure it covers everything you need to know to
successfully host your own autism-friendly screenings.
The training includes:
A short video that gives you an insight into autism-friendly screenings
Free resources to download
An introduction to autism-friendly screenings and its story so far
Your guide to understanding autism and communicating with your guests
How to make your screening autism-friendly, including; pre-screening preparation,
programming and film choice, publishing and taking bookings and adjustments on the day
Funding options available for your screenings
How to promote your screenings
By taking the training and hosting your own autism-friendly screenings, you’re helping the
80% of people with autism who feel excluded from their community access an experience
many people take for granted.
https://youtu.be/x8crZW5K8Co
https://dimensions-uk.org/wp-content/uploads/Is-your-screening-sensory-friendly-poster.pdf
https://dimensions-uk.org/wp-content/uploads/Autism-Friendly-Screenings-Guide-for-cinema
s-2019.pdf
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/104WBhxh_SuP0FufgtsXSEEfTS0vEYCkh
https://dimensions-uk.org/get-involved/campaigns/autism-friendly-cinema-screenings/free-au
tism-cinema-training/take-cinemas-training/ —> check the timeline of autism-friendly
environment.
THE IMPORTANCE OF AUTISM-FRIENDLY VIEWING
(what is lacking?)
—> cinemas can only adapt their viewings to a certain extent. As wide as the ASD can be,
its symptoms depend on each person.
“Autism-friendly viewing is a term used to describe movies, TV shows, and other visual
media that are designed to be more accessible and accommodating to individuals on the
autism spectrum. There are several reasons why autism-friendly viewing is important:
Improved access: Many individuals on the autism spectrum face challenges when it comes
to accessing and enjoying movies and other visual media. Sensory sensitivities, difficulty
with social interactions, and challenges with communication can all make it difficult for
individuals with autism to participate in these activities fully. Autism-friendly viewing options,
such as sensory-friendly screenings and closed captioning, can help to make movies and
other visual media more accessible and enjoyable for individuals with autism.
Increased understanding: Autism-friendly viewing options can also help to increase
understanding and awareness of autism among the general public. Providing
accommodations for individuals with autism, these options can help to break down barriers
and promote greater inclusion and acceptance of individuals on the autism spectrum.
Better engagement: By making movies and other visual media more accessible to
individuals with autism, autism-friendly viewing options can also help to improve
engagement and participation. When individuals with autism are able to participate in these
activities fully, they may be more likely to enjoy them and derive greater benefits from them.
Overall, autism-friendly viewing is an important way to promote greater accessibility,
understanding, and engagement for individuals on the autism spectrum. By providing
accommodations and support, we can help to ensure that everyone has equal access to the
benefits of visual media.”
Monitoring facial expressions:
The research project, just presented at IEEE’s Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition
conference in Hawaii, demonstrates a new method by which facial expressions in a theatre
can be reliably and relatively simply tracked in real-time.
It uses what’s called a factorized variational autoencoder — the math of it I am not even
going to try to explain, but it’s better than existing methods at capturing the essence of
complex things like faces in motion.
The team collected a large set of face data by recording audiences of hundreds watching
movies (Disney ones, naturally). An infrared hi-def camera captures everyone’s motions and
faces, and the resulting data — 16 million or so data points — was fed to the neural network.
https://techcrunch.com/2017/07/25/this-facial-recognition-system-tracks-how-youre-enjoying-
a-movie/?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_refe
rrer_sig=AQAAAGUEyJA1qUldGSWb7rUcv_LqBVKu8WdbjNX9JMY_KPCLusjOeR-DHr0_f
HOI70LT5-ups17rm5-l36lYl-9kpawvz5-xHAXIgsCCoT0JW3OKDc5ofjvQUooa-KtPVP00Crdw
IvueP3_IMrmcX7rCjE-H-W2-ue40PbtrxZ7Hha-4
Over 90% of people with autism would go to the cinema more often if more screenings were
available. That’s why our autism-friendly training is free for all cinemas. Click here to take the
training.
The short video and guide will give you all the information you need to host high-quality
sensory friendly and inclusive cinema screenings. Use the buttons below to start your
journey.
Why host autism-friendly screenings?
Autism-friendly screenings have had over 400,000 visits with frequent requests for more
options and more opportunities.
80% of people with autism told us they have felt excluded from their community because
they worry about being judged. But autism-friendly screenings provide a reason to leave the
house and help people feel part of their community:
The feedback is clear; people with autism often feel excluded and simply want the same
opportunities as other people to enjoy their communities and the cinema.
That’s why, if you take the training, you can apply to be included in our directories. We share
these with over 25,000 social media followers and will be included in the 20,000+ monthly
views our autism-friendly screenings webpages get.
https://dimensions-uk.org/get-involved/campaigns/autism-friendly-cinema-screenings/free-au
tism-cinema-training/
https://www.slideshare.net/DimensionsUK/autism-friendly-screenings-2018-2019-survey-res
ults
Summary: Gamification uses game-like elements in non-game contexts, such as education,
to motivate and engage learners. In the context of eLearning for individuals with autism,
gamification can be a powerful tool to promote learning and engagement.
Gamification Approaches Inclusive Of ASD Learners
In recent years, gamification has gained popularity as a way to make learning more
engaging and interactive. However, for individuals with autism, traditional gamification
techniques may not be as effective. This is because individuals with autism may have unique
learning needs and challenges, such as difficulty with social interactions, communication,
and processing complex or abstract information. In this article, we will explore the use of
gamification in eLearning for individuals with autism and discuss strategies for designing
autism-friendly gamification. We will also examine the potential benefits of using gamification
in eLearning for individuals with autism and discuss some of the challenges and limitations
of this approach.
https://elearningindustry.com/autism-friendly-gamification-in-elearning
Online Safety and Security
Those with Autism can feel far more at ease interacting with the world online. The options of
communicating at a distance, using simple emoticons to convey emotion and the space for
repetition offered by online and distance learning, as well as the time study the text of any
messages sent to them can take the intimidation some feel in face to face contact out of the
equation. With that said, vulnerable users could be susceptible to risks online, ranging from
cyberbullying to coercion and manipulation.
There are ways to guard against these risks without losing out on the liberty of online
communication and browsing platforms. These include parental control settings to avoid
certain sites, honest and clear discussions about what it is ok to search for and what to do if
they are contacted by people they do not know. A useful rule is to have them contact you if
they are emailed anything with an attachment in it or if they are receiving messages or view
anything else that upsets them. To aid in this, a list of trusted adults should be established
with them beforehand. For those on the spectrum that do not require parental or guardian
consent, trusted friends/family members are still a key part of the equation.
Bringing it All Together
Autism affects a relatively large section of the population and to varying degrees. There is no
doubt that it can go hand-in-hand with a wide range of wonderful and rich life experiences. It
simply means that information, social interactions (everything from casual conversations to
job or college interviews) and humor may be processed differently. A huge benefit to those
on the spectrum is the removed and malleable nature of the online and digital world,
enabling them to tailor their learning experience, socializing or entertainment to their own
specific needs. To help with this, website designers, content writers and family and friends
can form the best team to ensure the message is clear, the online space is their own and the
experience from start to finish is safe.
https://livingautism.com/autism-friendly-digital-world/
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