Virtual Reality Air Travel Training with Autistic Individuals - Design considerations and future directions

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Previous research points to the utility of virtual reality (VR) to address core deficits in communication and restrictive, repetitive behaviors or interests (RRBI) in autistic populations. The current paper presents a set of design considerations and future directions from two pilot studies exploring the application of virtual reality-based air travel training in autistic children, adolescents, and young adults. The paper discusses improvements in the design and display of virtual environments in light of sensory sensitivities or processing difficulties, as well as different approaches in scripting narratives that guide users through training environments. Since the purpose of these two pilot studies was to facilitate functional communication and improve air travel skills, we also present findings and a brief discussion on next steps and improvements in measurement techniques. Overall, the current report highlights the unique advantages of mobile VR to help ease the burden of service and care providers in the treatment of ASD. VR is a useful and effective tool that is improving the lives of autistic individuals and disrupting the status quo of service delivery.