Design and implementation of augmented reality in apps for game assisted learning for children with ASD

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a wide range of developmental condition which are characterised by challenges in social abilities, verbal or non-verbal communication and repetitive motion or behaviour. This condition is acquired genetically and can be influenced by the surrounding environment. The condition requires extensive testing by a qualified physician and may take up to a year to be properly diagnosed. In this report, the use of games will to improve executive functions of children with ASD would be discussed. This includes the methodology and the reasons behind the intentions of implementing certain functions in the game that will help in the development for children diagnosed with ASD. The use of materials that is made more accessible to families that have children with ASD can improve the chances of positive development by reducing certain behavioural symptoms. Before, therapy is used as the main method of helping children with ASD but this consumes resources such as time or financially for families. Game assisted learning has shown potential to help children with ASD while at home thus reducing trips to a specialized therapist. This report will also cover the implementation of Augmented Reality (AR) in a home bag-packing game along with its design and reasoning behind it. The report would then be concluded with recommendations to further enhance the game’s potential to assist children with ASD.