Virtual Reality (VR) Serious Game Design Framework and Behaviorism Factors for Real Life Adaptation Skills Training for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders(ASD)

Abstract

A serious game applying virtual reality (VR) is expected to be used as a tool for independent life training by inducing immersion and interest in children with Autism Spectrum Disorders(ASD). This study is to examine a framework for the development of a Virtual Reality-Serious Game(VR-SG) for training ASD children's real life adaptation skills through literature review, and to propose a behaviorist prototype for synchronizing VR-SG. The results of the study are as follows. First, the VR-SG framework approaches in three areas: pedagogy, learning content and game mechanism, and evaluation. Second, the behaviorist strategy for synchronizing VR-SG for real life adaptation skills training for students with ASD is to: (1) Clear application of reinforcement and punishment; (2) Induce continuity of participation in the game by applying the reinforcement plan; (3) diversification of behavioral chains for repetitive practice; (4) difficulty control using stimulation promotion; (5) diversification of reaction promotion according to personal preference. This study presented basic contents for use in the development of independent life training programs for children with ASD by studying the framework for developing functional virtual reality games for children with ASD.