POSTER ABSTRACT: While sociocommunicative behaviors of the autistic population are frequently pathologized, the researchers find evidence supporting strength-based (SB) approaches which utilize the natural talents, strengths, interests and communication styles of individuals with autism, resulting in higher degrees of well-being. Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) founded in SB approaches are visually designed, simple to use, and are also complex in functionality. Because of the heterogeneity of individuals with autism, personalization and customization are key features for applications to be accessible to a wide variety of user-experiences and needs. By using natural autistic communication-orientation and design preferences, it is possible that learned skills will become more generalizable and that other outcome types will be encouraged. As a key feature of SB approaches, ICT development must incorporate and collaborate with the autistic community these technologies seek to support.
Technology Accessibility Research
Poster and paper presented at ASSETS 2019, a technology accessibility conference. We now have a second related paper in peer review and a third in process.