A research group at the University of Tokyo held a workshop using an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) perceptual experience simulator in collaboration with the LITALICO Institute operated by LITALICO Co., Ltd.We clarified that participation in the workshop improved the negative feelings that participants had toward people with ASD.
A head-mounted display simulator (ASD perceptual experience simulator) was developed to allow typical development (the majority of people who do not have developmental disorders) to experience the world perceived by people with ASD and understand the difficulties faced by people with ASD. Ta.Past studies that attempted to improve discriminatory prejudice through experiences of disability reported not only improvement but also aggravation of discriminatory prejudice.However, the use of simulators was not considered.
This time, we held a workshop using an ASD perceptual experience simulator, and measured the participants' (217 typically developing) impressions of ASD using questionnaires before and after the workshop. We investigated the changes in impressions caused by experiencing the perception of ASD.
As a result, it was confirmed that the unpleasant feelings immediately after the workshop were significantly lower than at the time of workshop participation registration.Furthermore, the reduction in discomfort persisted even after 6 weeks.This result suggests that by participating in the workshop, experiencing the perceptions of ASD people, and coming into contact with the stories of ASD people, negative feelings towards ASD can be continuously reduced.
This workshop can be used in various situations such as school classes and corporate training.If this leads to a deeper understanding of the sensory perception difficulties faced by people with ASD, and if the negative feelings toward ASD are improved, we can expect to realize a society in which people with ASD can fully demonstrate their potential.
