The possibility and importance of immersive technologies during COVID-19 for autistic people

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify three key areas where autistic people may find themselves impacted through COVID-19, namely, education; employment; and anxiety.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides some views based on the extensive experience of using immersive technologies for the utilisation and application with autistic groups during COVID-19.

Findings

This paper offers some examples of immersive technology application that might be helpful for practitioners, services and others to consider in overcoming possible challenges faced by people with autism.

Originality/value

This opinion piece offers expert insights to the role immersive technologies and virtual reality might play during COVID-19 in the lives of autistic groups.

Citation

Newbutt, N., Schmidt, M.M., Riva, G. and Schmidt, C. (2020), "The possibility and importance of immersive technologies during COVID-19 for autistic people", Journal of Enabling Technologies, Vol. 14 No. 3, pp. 187-199. https://doi.org/10.1108/JET-07-2020-0028