Augmented reality: a view to future visual supports for people with disability

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation technology
• Assistive technology
• Human-computer interaction

Background:

• Augmented Reality (AR) offers immersive visual support potential for active user engagement.
• Limited research exists on AR's use in research or therapy settings for visual guidance.
• AR may enhance participation and inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate AR for delivering visual supports in an immersive environment.
• To explore the use of Microsoft HoloLens2® and Dynamics 365 Guides® for AR applications.
• To assess AR's potential as assistive technology for neurodevelopmental disability.

Main Methods:

• A duo-ethnography approach was used by two novice speech-language pathologists.
• A proof-of-concept AR application was designed and tested for guiding task completion.
• Researchers reflected on the opportunities and barriers of using AR technology.

Main Results:

• The AR guide provided situated visual instructions, video models, and holographic symbols.
• Moderate technological literacy was needed for setup, but minimal training was required for effective use.
• The AR guide successfully supported a user in making a cup of tea.

Conclusions:

• AR guides present a situated and integrated method for delivering visual support to individuals with disabilities.
• This study supports further investigation of AR as an assistive technology for neurodevelopmental disability.
• AR technology can enable active participation in independent activities for people with disabilities.