Participation of Autistic People in Research and Technology Design

This chapter analyses the rights of autistic people to participate in the process of designing, developing and experimentally testing digital tools to address their needs. This active participation can be achieved and facilitated in at least two ways: in research studies and in the design processes of tools and intervention strategies. For the participation of autistic people in research, this chapter analyses ethical implications and relevant experimental designs that facilitate the representation of the autism spectrum. An evaluative method for assessing Evidence-Based Practices (EBP) in autism is also analysed. For the technology design, several methodologies facilitate this participation when expressing and defining their real needs in the initial stages of the technology development cycle. General methodologies for technology development are analysed with a focus on guaranteeing the best response to their needs. Finally, the case of gamification and web accessibility is analysed to illustrate how participation can be truly achieved.