DESIGN OF A ROBOTIC TOY AND USER INTERFACES FOR AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER RISK ASSESSMENT

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is an umbrella term for a spectrum of complex developmental disorders resulting in deficits in social communication and repetitive and stereotyped behaviors (APA, 2013). Research in the area revealed that young children with ASD are interested in technology. This preference for technology may lead to promising intervention models (Annaz et al., 2012; Klin et al., 2009; Fong et al., 2003). This paper includes research into how to design and use technology to create suitable products for deficits of ASD. With all the concern over the high prevalence ratios of ASD, this study presents the methodology and design of a risk assessment device, which aims to capture the interest of children with ASD aged 3-4, and direct children who score low on the tests towards a diagnosis. The tests in the device are designed to detect differences with ToM tests between ASD and typically developing (TD) children. In the scope of the paper, 2D illustrations, interface design, and outer shell design of the device are created in compliance with the research data in the field.