Dive Brief:
- At the Research on Autism and Development Laboratory, the focus is on creating and designing video games that can developmentally support children with autism.
- Although there are hundreds of apps and games created in mind for people with autism, some say these programs are not very helpful, according to Science.
- Using tools from eye-tracking technology to augmented and virtual reality, researchers hope to simulate new interactions, even some that mirror a behavioral therapy session.
Dive Insight:
Fun video games are being eyed by researchers as ways to deliver more than adrenaline — such as educational material and perhaps even behavioral therapies. That kind of research is certainly attractive to those who are eager to tie an appealing activity for children to something that can also benefit their lives.
Yet video games have a complicated pedigree, as evidenced by the World Health Organization recently adding “gaming disorder” to its 11th edition of the International Classification of Diseases. Whether its video games or social media, digital addiction is such a concern that ironically, digital apps have cropped up to help people tear themselves away from screens.
For educators wondering whether they should add technology gadgets and video games to their curriculum, the decision may lie in the answer to most things — adopting with moderation and staying abreast of the research as it moves along.
