Universal access through accessible computer educational programs to develop the reading skills of children with autistic spectrum disorders

摘要

Finding the right research design, method and methodology for research in universal access can be a daunting process, as there are often no clearly laid down procedures on how to go about such work (Adams and Langdon, Universal access in HCI inclusive design in the information society. Lawrence Erlbaum, Mahwah, 2003). Researchers in the past have looked to other disciplines for guidance, or have followed the examples of other leading researchers. This problem is particularly acute when considering groups of individuals with very demanding and complex requirements. This paper evaluates research aimed at enabling children with autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) and severe learning difficulties to acquire early reading skills. In order to carry out research in this area, which contributes to a better understanding of the issues and to provide practical benefits, new methods are required to be developed on top of existing approaches.