Feasibility of autism‐focused public speech training using a simple virtual audience for autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

Aim Public speaking seems to be one of the most anxiety‐provoking situations for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, there are few evidence‐based interventions. We developed Autism‐Focused Public Speech Training using Simple Virtual Audiences (APSV), which differs from a general virtual audience in terms of its simple facial expressions and emphasis on the importance of the eyes. The present study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of APSV as an educational method for individuals with ASD. Methods Fifteen male individuals with ASD were randomly assigned to two groups: one group received APSV (n = 8), and the other group (n = 7) received independent study (IS). From Days 2 to 6, participants in the APSV and IS groups were encouraged to read and answer questions often asked in actual public speaking events. Participants in the APSV study group performed this activity in front of the APSV system, while those in the IS group performed in an empty room. Before and after the intervention (Days 1 and 7), the participants in the two groups had a mock public speaking experience in front of 10 people for approximately 10 min. Results After the training sessions, the participants’ self‐confidence had improved and salivary cortisol levels were significantly decreased in the APSV group as compared to those in the IS group. APSV improved self‐confidence and decreased public speaking stress in individuals with ASD. Conclusion APSV appears to be useful in improving self‐confidence and decreasing public speaking stress in individuals with ASD.

Handle the Autism Spectrum Condition during Coronavirus (COVID-19) Stay at Home Period: Ten Tips for Helping Parents and Caregivers of Young Children

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Group-Based Online Job Interview Training Program Using Virtual Robot for Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorders

“…Previous studies have demonstrated that many individuals with ASD show motivation and an aptitude for using technology ( 6 – 9 ). These individuals sometimes have a preference for virtual agents ( 10 – 12 ). There is a growing body of research related to the application of virtual worlds, a technology that allows users to practice context-based social and adaptive skills ( 2 , 13 – 15 ).…”

“…Given these factors, we assume that using a simple virtual agent for training may be adequate for individuals with ASD. Research on virtual exposure with clinical samples indicates that even simple virtual agents can induce a significant increase in anxiety and can be effective for phobic people compared to speaking in front of an empty virtual seminar room ( 10 ).…”

Brief Report: Improving Employment Interview Self-efficacy Among Adults with Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities Using Virtual Interactive Training Agents (ViTA)

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“…Alternately, Kumazaki et al (2020) developed a non-immersive program that used a female robot to allow participants (n = 8) to practice taking the role of interviewer and interviewee during interview simulations. Both studies sought to improve interview skills and to increase participant motivation to engage others socially (de Heer et al 2019) or to understand that others have viewpoints different from their own, referred to as a 'theory of mind'-which is commonly impaired in those living with ASD (Kumazaki et al 2020).…”