Functionality of Apps for People with Autism: Comparison between Educators from Florence and Granada

Area of Science:

• Educational Technology
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Research
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Increasing interest in smartphone applications for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
• Exploration of digital tools to support the development and integration of people with ASD.
• Focus on educators' perspectives regarding app utility in ASD interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze educators' opinions on the benefits and applicability of smartphone apps for individuals with autism.
• To investigate the frequency and types of apps used by educators for people with autism.
• To compare perceptions between educators in Florence, Italy, and Granada, Spain.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative, non-experimental design involving 1261 professionals (286 app users).
• Descriptive and frequency statistics, parametric inferential analyses (Student's t-test, ANOVA).
• Calculation of effect sizes (Cohen's d, eta squared) and intrafactorial correlations.

Main Results:

• Statistically significant differences found based on city, sex, age, experience, workplace, and teacher type.
• Granada educators reported higher perceived benefits and applicability of apps for autism.
• Slightly higher app usage reported by educators in Granada compared to Florence.

Conclusions:

• Acquiring knowledge in information and communication technology (ICT) is crucial for professionals supporting individuals with autism.
• ICT-based methodologies can significantly aid the integrated development of individuals with diverse capabilities.
• Bridging the digital divide in autism support requires dedicated professional development.