Exploring the use of virtual learning environments to support science learning in autistic students

Abstract

Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. Autistic children exhibit certain characteristics in varying degrees including difficulties in verbal/non-verbal communication, social interaction and repetitive behaviors. This paper discusses the role of Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) in helping autistic children learn science and engineering concepts. VLEs are a type cyber learning environments created using Virtual Reality technology; as part of a learning activities, a set of VLEs to teach autistic students concepts in related to the solar system, robotics and density has been developed; assessment results underscore the potential of such VLEs to support science and engineering learning.