Design and Prototype Development of Augmented Reality in Reading Learning for Autism

(1) Background: Augmented reality is no less popular than virtual reality. This technology has begun to be used in education fields, one of which is special education. Merging the real and virtual worlds is the advantage of augmented reality. However, it needs special attention in making software for children with special needs, such as children with autism. This paper presents an application prototype by paying attention to the characteristics of autistic individuals according to the Autism Guide, that has existed in previous studies. (2) Method: The method used in the development of this prototype is the Linear Sequential Model. Application development is made using Unity3D, Vuforia, and Adobe Illustrator by considering accessibility and other conveniences for developers. (3) Results: The prototype was developed with reference to the Autism Guide, then validated by media experts and autistic experts with the results of the assessment obtaining a score of 87.3/100 which is in the "Very Good" category and is suitable for use. (4) Conclusions: The development of a prototype that refers to the characteristics of children with autism needs to be considered so that what will be conveyed can be easily accepted.