VR for Autism

Autism is a spectrum condition, meaning it affects individuals in different ways. Adults and children with autism have challenges in behavior, social skills, verbal and non-verbal communication. Simple tasks such as crossing a busy road can be a harrowing experience for them.The objective of this project is to deploy Virtual Reality (VR) technology to create simulated environments that can help prepare children with autism for situations that could be stressful and dangerous.his application uses Unity 3D Games Development platform to create realistic 3D visualizations of the scenario. The VR content is then launched in HTC Vive virtual reality system using SteamVR platform.

VR Training for Children with Autism aim to train children to perform scenario that could be too dangerous to conduct in the actual setting. One of the example is crossing the road or zebra crossing. The aim is for the therapist to check on the child’s reaction to scenario like for example when its still Red man and an adult jaywalk across the road etc.

The therapist is able to monitor the child’s view and activate certain condition such as car dashing across the zebra crossing without stopping. The child then reacts to what he ‘see’ in the VR headset in a safe environment and is also able to ‘view’ the repercussions of his actions on a lifelike manner. VR training of this sort can aid therapist to heighten the situational awareness of the children with autism.