Assistive Technology to Improve Collaboration in Children with ASD: State-of-the-Art and Future Challenges in the Smart Products Sector

Abstract

Within the field of products for autism spectrum disorder, one of the main research areas is focused on the development of assistive technology. Mid and high-tech products integrate interactive and smart functions with multisensory reinforcements, making the user experience more intuitive, adaptable, and dynamic. These products have a very significant impact on improving the skills of children with autism, including collaboration and social skills, which are essential for the integration of these children into society and, therefore, their well-being. This work carried out an exhaustive analysis of the scientific literature, as well as market research and trends, and patent analysis to explore the state-of-the-art of assistive technology and smart products for children with ASD, specifically those aimed at improving social and communication skills. The results show a reduced availability of products that act as facilitators of the special needs of children with ASD, which is even more evident for products aimed at improving collaboration skills. Products that allow the participation of several users simultaneously through multi-user interfaces are required. On top of this, the trend toward virtual environments is leading to a loss of material aspects in the design that are essential for the development of these children.

New advances in the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders

“…Studies have shown that the eye movement patterns of children with ASD while viewing social scenes differ from those of typically developing children, providing a non-invasive window for early screening [ 42 ]. The application of these state-of-the-art technologies not only improves the efficiency and accessibility of early screening, but also provides new perspectives for understanding the complexity and individual differences in ASD [ 43 ]. Although these approaches are still in the research and development stage, they demonstrate the great potential of utilizing technological advances to improve the process of ASD screening and diagnosis.…”

Sensory Processing Differences in Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Narrative Review of Underlying Mechanisms and Sensory-Based Interventions

“…Mid and advanced products incorporate interactive and intelligent functions with multi-sensory reinforcements to create a more intuitive, adaptive, and dynamic user experience. These products play an extremely important role in enhancing the skills of children with autism, such as working together, developing social skills, and improving their overall well-being [34]. Socially assistive robotics (SARs) constitute a promising way to improve the social skills of kids with ASD.…”

Effects of Game-based Physical Education Program on Enjoyment in Children and Adolescents : A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

“…Data were collected from 17 researches included in this study, and it is found The ndings indicate that interventions using physical education game teaching have an advantageous effect on enjoyment encountered by children and adolescents.Relevant research has concluded that teaching athletic activities encourages youngsters and teenagers to strengthen their cognitive abilities (38, 39),motivation and social components of learning while participating in the games (40,41).More importantly, games may help adolescents and children control their emotions (42). The enjoyment gained from physical exercise is the most powerful incentive for them to take part in school activities (43,44).…”