Assistance for Autistik People – New Research Project AutARK at the Chair of Human-Computer Interaction

In January of this year, the BMAS-funded research project “AutARK - Automatic Adaptation of Overstimulating Contexts” began with four scientific employees at the Chair of Human-Computer Interaction under the scientific direction of Professor Gerhard Weber. The project has a duration of three years and aims to improve and maintain the employability of people with autism in the first job market through the development of technical assistance systems. As part of a human-centered design process, the development of a model system is planned, which should provide an adaptive filtering system for reducing stimuli and stressors in the workplace, using artificial intelligence. In addition, the implementation of systems that support communication and social interaction in the work context is also desired. Furthermore, natural interaction concepts with tangibles will be tested in various communication scenarios as well as in task and appointment planning.

The research project investigates the requirements, needs, and abilities of adults on the autism spectrum in the workplace, highlighting the potential of the target group and the high relevance of accessibility and adaptive solutions for people with mental or cognitive impairments.