Interactive Technologies for Autism: A Review

The use of interactive technologies by individuals with autism and their caregivers and teachers has been exploding over the last several decades. New technologies have been adapted and used frequently by individuals with autism and their families and caregivers. In addition, individuals on the autism spectrum often have a greater affinity for interactive technologies than typically developing children and adults. Thus, there is great promise for the use of these types of technologies as interventions, strategies for communication, and as a means for data collection. New technologies also have the ability to help with the assessment and diagnosis of individuals with autism, to understand the nature of autism, and to help researchers conduct basic research. This article provides a comprehensive review of the historical and state-of-the-art use of technology by and for individuals with autism. The intention is to give someone new to this space the necessary background to understand what has been done and what promises and challenges still lie ahead. By providing a framework and a comprehensive, inclusive review, this article can also give technology designers a head start in knowing what technologies have been successful, what problems remain open, and where they can make the biggest difference in improving the lives of individuals with autism.