An Interactive DesignFor Children with Autism

[http://casperelectronics.com/finished-pieces/nova-drone/]

[http://casperelectronics.com/finished-pieces/nova-drone/]

Electronic musical instruments are available at casperelectronics.com

The “Nova Drone” can be ordered in parts and assembled with soldering equipment…

A Sound + Light Synthesizer

Previous Research: “Particles”

Abstract images encourage children with ASD to interact with a virtual environment. These “particles” can be manipulated and controlled.

Trepagnier, et al. (2006). Simulating Social Interaction to Address Deficits of Autistic Spectrum Disorder in Children.

Survey distributed to:• Parents of children with autism• Care providers of children with autism

Gathering information about:• Observed behaviors• Effective interventions• Noticeable sensitivities

Persona + Design Requirements

Persona + Design Requirements

Name: Kevin

Age: 5 years old

Diagnosis: High-Functioning Autism

Goals

• Engage in a motor-skill activity without disturbance or environmental distractions

• Tasks not requiring prolonged eye contact or verbal communication of thoughts / feelings

Persona + Design Requirements

Behaviors and Expectations

• Uncrowded environments without loud noises or bright overhead lighting

• Will become frustrated and oppositional when self-initiated tasks are interrupted

Persona + Design Requirements

Design Requirements

• The interface should have minimal options allowing a wide range of control

• The volume and lighting should be adjustable for both intensity and quality

Persona + Design Requirements

Single-User Testing

One child with high-functioning ASD was given 20 minutes to interact with the sound + light device

1:23 Highlight Video

Summary of Observations:

• Interest in red light (“How do I turn the red light on”?)

• Preferred keeping light on (Turned light off and quickly back on “…OK, cool”)

• Did not compare to familiar sounds ( abstract noise)

• Did not understand picture of man ( abstract images)

“Design Suggestions?”

• Color coding

• Voice command (SIRI)

• Mobile version for watch

• Knob labeling… “This does this”

“Other Uses?”

• Plug into TV

• Put up a fence around the house

• Control drones / helicopters / jetpack

• Adjust time / temperature / lighting / security system

Child’s response to the following questions:

Child’s drawing with improvements he would like to see:

• Color-coded buttons

• Plug-in to other devices

Personification?

Desire to communicate?

Avant-garde filmKenneth Anger - 1950

Isolation Fascination Communication

An Interactive DesignFor Children with Autism