Training Attention Skills in Individuals with Neurodevelopmental Disorders using Virtual Reality and Eye-tracking technology

TL;DR

This study demonstrates that a redesigned VR application using eye-tracking technology effectively improves visual attention skills in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders over a four-week period.

Contribution

The paper introduces a novel VR application with eye-tracking for NDD intervention, showing its usability and effectiveness in enhancing attention skills.

Findings

Wildcard VR application is usable by NDD individuals.

The intervention improved visual attention skills.

Results support VR and eye-tracking for NDD therapy.

Abstract

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD), encompassing conditions like Intellectual Disability, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Autism Spectrum Disorder, present challenges across various cognitive capacities. Attention deficits are often common in individuals with NDD due to the sensory system dysfunction that characterizes these disorders. Consequently, limited attention capability can affect the overall quality of life and the ability to transfer knowledge from one circumstance to another. The literature has increasingly recognized the potential benefits of virtual reality (VR) in supporting NDD learning and rehabilitation due to its interactive and engaging nature, which is critical for consistent practice. In previous studies, we explored the usage of a VR application called Wildcard to enhance attention skills in persons with NDD. The application has been redesigned in this study, exploiting eye-tracking technology to enable novel and more fine-grade interactions. A four-week experiment with 38 NDD participants was conducted to evaluate its usability and effectiveness in improving Visual Attention Skills. Results show the usability and effectiveness of Wildcard in enhancing attention skills, advocating for continued exploration of VR and eye-tracking technology's potential in NDD interventions.