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As April is Autism Awareness month, 041Tech columnist Jenine Wyngaard looks at the relationship between technology and Autism.

Let’s start with the basics, what is Autism? Autism – also referred to as autism spectrum disorder (ASD)  ̶ constitutes a diverse group of conditions related to the development of the brain. About 1 in 100 children has autism. Characteristics may be detected in early childhood, but autism is often not diagnosed until much later. Common symptoms include difficulty with communication, difficulty with social interactions, obsessive interests and repetitive behaviours.

People with ASD tend to enjoy themselves and be engaged when interacting with technology devices like computers, phones and tablets. The use of technological advancements such as virtual agents, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and augmented reality undoubtedly provides a comfortable environment that promotes constant learning for people with ASD. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is a specific type of assistive technology that can benefit people with autism of all ages by promoting independence, expanding communication, and increasing social interactions. 

So how does technology help the ASD community? The most common use of technology to help children and adults with autism is to improve communication skills, there are hundreds of apps and devices that can help support individuals with autism at all levels and abilities. One app for example could be geared toward a nonverbal child/adult, while another can help with social cues for an individual with strong verbal communication skills. Visual schedules on tablets can be a great tool to help your child complete tasks and work on skills like self-care and daily living.

Technological devices like smartphones and tablets can also serve as motivation for your child. The use of an iPad or a favourite game app can serve as a reward for positive behaviour like the completion of a chore or a homework assignment. Video modelling is a method that involves teaching skills in a visual way. The video could be of the individual him/herself completing a task or assignment, or of a teacher, educator or parent teaching the skills and steps required. Your child can watch these videos as often as he/she likes / needs to help learn important skills. Video modelling can help with a wide array of skills including hygiene, job tasks, etc. It can sometimes be easier for an individual with autism to socialize via social networking than through the more traditional methods. Making friends or communicating with others online can help him or her work on the skills that might translate at school, work or out in the community.

Technology can be very helpful to some young adults and adults with autism in the workplace. For example, step-by-step checklists can help them stay on top of tasks and complete them in an orderly and successful manner. Reminders and notes about each task in case he/she forgets something, rather than continuously asking a coworker, can also help encourage and establish more independence in the workplace.

Of course, with the aids, there are always some hindrances. Autistic children are particularly attracted to screen-based technology such as phones /tablets. They are prone to developing an addiction to technology with smaller amounts of exposure than the average child so this is something that needs to be properly managed. With increased screen time, the risk of sleep disturbances increases. There is a lack of melatonin (which helps regulate sleep) in children with Autism and screen time suppresses melatonin even more, thus it becomes essential to manage screen time especially closer to bedtime. While the use of technology can greatly assist with social networking skills, the lack of skills such as eye contact, reading facial expressions, body language, and empathy can also hinder the development of these skills. It is essential that good old physical socialization is still encouraged and practised. Children with autism are prone to anxiety; they are more likely to have obsessive-compulsive traits and social anxiety. Screen time is associated with increased risk for OCD and social anxiety. Overall, good management of screen time is essential to ensure the pros outweigh the cons.

Some emerging technological innovations for autism include:

1. Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) allow individuals to control a computer or other device using signals from the brain. In the context of ASD, BCIs may hold promise as a tool for improving social interaction and other areas of functioning.
2. Virtual reality (VR) technologies use computer-generated simulations of natural or imagined environments to create immersive experiences. In the context of ASD, VR technologies may help individuals learn social skills and practice interacting with others in a safe and controlled space.
3. Smart home technologies are devices and systems that use Internet connectivity and AI to automate and control various aspects of a home. In the context of ASD, smart home technologies may be able to help individuals with the condition live more independently and safely.
4. Robotic technologies, such as social robots, may also be able to help individuals with autism. Social robots are designed to interact with humans naturally and intuitively, and they may help individuals with ASD learn social skills and improve communication.

It is important to note that some of these technologies are still in the early stages of development. More research is needed to understand their potential and determine the most appropriate and effective ways to use them. Looking to the future, there is still much we do not know about autism and how best to treat and support individuals with the condition. However, research is ongoing, and there is reason to be hopeful that we will continue to progress in understanding and treating ASD.