Day Planner: An Accessible Serious Game to Support Social Communication in Children with ASD
摘要
This study presents the development of Day Planner, an accessible serious game designed to assist children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in selecting appropriate clothing for different social situations and weather conditions. The goal is to support the development of social communication skills through interactive and context-based learning. The methodology comprised a literature review to identify the needs and capabilities of children with ASD, followed by the application of accessibility guidelines in the design of a game prototype. The prototype was evaluated by healthcare professionals specializing in ASD, who highlighted its potential to support children with Level 1 ASD in developing greater independence in social communication. Preliminary results indicate that the game’s minimalist visual design and standardized layout, combined with realistic scenarios, contribute to its use and educational value. Professionals also recommended enhancements such as additional visual and auditory cues, clearer performance indicators, and customizable features. These findings point to future directions involving usability testing with children, aiming to refine the game’s effectiveness. Day Planner represents a step forward in the development of inclusive educational tools, promoting accessibility and innovation in digital learning environments.