This study investigates how video conferencing systems can be improved to better support autistic individuals, who often struggle with speaker recognition, social cues, and sensory overload. These challenges can lead to misunderstandings and anxiety, limiting professional and social participation. To address these issues, we designed and evaluated video conferencing enhancements, including speaker identification, irony detection, and meeting agendas. Following a literature review and persona-based needs analysis, we developed nine low-fidelity prototypes in an iterative, user-centred process. Based on user feedback, including input from autistic individuals, we refined these into a high-fidelity prototype incorporating speaker highlighting and participant information boxes. Our results indicate improved usability and reduced disruption, though further customization is needed to accommodate individual needs. Both autistic and neurotypical users can benefit from the prototypically implemented features, indicating the potential for broader use.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

Bridging Communication Gaps: Conceptual Enhancements for Video Conferencing with Autistic Users

  • Jacques-Maurice Walther,
  • Jan Schmalfuß-Schwarz,
  • David Gollasch,
  • Christin Engel,
  • Gerhard Weber

摘要

This study investigates how video conferencing systems can be improved to better support autistic individuals, who often struggle with speaker recognition, social cues, and sensory overload. These challenges can lead to misunderstandings and anxiety, limiting professional and social participation. To address these issues, we designed and evaluated video conferencing enhancements, including speaker identification, irony detection, and meeting agendas. Following a literature review and persona-based needs analysis, we developed nine low-fidelity prototypes in an iterative, user-centred process. Based on user feedback, including input from autistic individuals, we refined these into a high-fidelity prototype incorporating speaker highlighting and participant information boxes. Our results indicate improved usability and reduced disruption, though further customization is needed to accommodate individual needs. Both autistic and neurotypical users can benefit from the prototypically implemented features, indicating the potential for broader use.