Five Ways In Which
Assistive Technologies Can
Benefit Children With Autism.

Author

Saniya Ali

Published

30 Jan 2022

Assistive technologies are products, software programs, and systems designed to enhance learning, working, and daily living for persons with disabilities, including those with autism. These can help autistic children in particular learn better, communicate more effectively, and experience and enhanced Quality of Life (QOL).

In Pakistan, where technology possesses a greater reach than that of many medical and educational institutions, we at Edsistive aim to leverage assistive technology to play a central role in delivering remedial support, awareness, and screening tools pertaining to autism. We are also looking to improve the support structures available to autistic individuals, and to improve our local understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

How can we use assistive technology to benefit children with autism?

01 Attending Skills

Attending is the first skill young children with disabilities need to learn: in order to learn, children with autism have to be taught sit still. To learn, they have to be able to attend to the teacher, listening and responding when asked. Assistive interventions can, for example, enhance attending during large-group listening activities using visual representation systems and interactive Voice Output Communication Aids (VOCAs).

02 Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) Tools

Experts agree that the sooner children with ASD are exposed to effective communication systems the more positive the effect will be on their future development and learning. AAC tools aid in communication, and offer a great way for autistic individuals to communicate when they do not have the physical ability to use verbal speech or writing. These technologies can range from a simple set of picture symbols on a communication board to high-end speech generating devices.

03 Improving Organisation and Executive Function

Assistive technologies can help enhance the planning, control, and monitoring of goal-directed behavior among children with autism. Assistive technologies focused on story sequencing and time management incorporating timers and illustrations can be especially effective in this area.

04 Enhancing Social Skills

Developing social skills among autistic children is essential in managing inappropriate social behaviours, but can be an overwhelming endeavour for instructors and caregivers. Visual scene-display apps, audio-taping for identifying ‘inappropriate’ social behaviours, and buttons and applications that emulate turn-taking activities can supplement physical social skills interventions.

05 Sensory Therapy

Individuals with autism often enjoy their own company, becoming more engaged when interacting with computers in a safe, comfortable environment. Assistive technologies that support deep pressure therapy, sensory toys and balls, and picture boards can be a great way to address overwhelming sensory stimuli by providing a sensation of calming effects and relaxation without being negated by physical intervention.