Ileana Scarcella

About

Ileana Scarcella is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of digital technology and neurodevelopmental conditions, with a primary focus on autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Her work centers on harnessing information and communication technologies (ICTs)—including serious games, social robots, and virtual reality (VR)—to create innovative educational and therapeutic interventions for children with autism. In her highly cited 2023 systematic review (24 citations), she provided a comprehensive analysis of ICT-based randomized control trials from a positive technology perspective, establishing a critical framework for evaluating digital interventions. Her 2024 work on VR for autism (18 citations) further explores how immersive environments can unlock learning and growth by addressing core challenges in social communication and repetitive behaviors. Scarcella’s research is notable for its emphasis on evidence-based, technology-driven solutions that are both appealing and appropriate for young users. With a growing citation impact, she is helping to shape a new paradigm where cutting-edge digital tools are not merely assistive but transformative, offering scalable, engaging pathways to support cognitive and social development in autism care.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

Top Papers

1. 1
   Information and communication technologies-based interventions for children with autism spectrum conditions: a systematic review of randomized control trials from a positive technology perspective

   24 citations · 2023
2. 2
   Virtual reality for autism: unlocking learning and growth

   18 citations · 2024

Key Collaborators

Contact & Links