Aligning XR Research with Autistic Priorities and Lived Experiences: Insights from the Project PHoENIX Study

Area of Science:

• Neurodevelopmental research
• Human-computer interaction
• Assistive technology

Background:

• Autistic individuals often face unique challenges in education, employment, and social interaction.
• Existing assistive technologies may not fully address the specific needs and strengths of autistic individuals.
• Extended Reality (XR) presents novel opportunities for personalized and adaptive support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the perceptions of autistic adults regarding the potential of XR technologies.
• To explore how XR can amplify autistic strengths and align with their priorities.
• To identify barriers and facilitators for the adoption of XR tools among transition-aged autistic individuals.

Main Methods:

• A multi-methods focus group approach was employed within the Project PHoENIX XR environment.
• Twelve autistic participants engaged in structured activities, virtual tours, and interactive tasks.
• Qualitative data were collected and analyzed through a three-phase coding process.

Main Results:

• Two primary categories emerged: Autistic-Centered Considerations and Technology-Centered Considerations.
• Nuanced themes and subthemes revealed insights into autistic needs and XR platform affordances/limitations.
• Participants' perspectives highlighted the potential for XR to support strengths-based approaches.

Conclusions:

• XR research holds significant potential for developing practical, strengths-based interventions for autistic individuals.
• Future XR interventions can be designed to be empowering and inclusive, aligning with autistic priorities.
• Co-designing XR environments with autistic participants is crucial for effective and relevant technology development.