Call for Papers: Theme Issue on Technologies for Autism

FYI:
Call for Papers: Theme Issue on Technologies for Autism
Editors: Gillian Hayes, University of California, Irvine and Karrie Karahalios, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
Publication:  Personal and Ubiquitous Computing

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), also known as Pervasive Development Disorder, includes impairments in social interaction, communication—both verbal and non-verbal—and stereotypical or repeated behavior, interests and activities. A recent report by the Centers for Disease Control using data from the United States in 2006 indicated a rise in prevalence of ASD to 1 in 110 children: 1 in 70 boys and 1 in 310 girls. Individuals across the Spectrum can potentially benefit from the use of novel computing technologies, including assistive and augmentative technologies, social computational systems, sensing and context-aware systems, capture and access applications, wearable systems, and more.

This special issue calls for original research and methodology papers on the integration of personal and ubiquitous computing technologies in support of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The purpose of this special issue is to bring together a set of research papers that will (1) advance our understanding of Technologies for autism, (2) discuss the role of technology in Supporting individuals with ASD, their friends and families, and (3) provide examples of effective technologies for autism. Through this special issue, we hope to bring together a diverse set of researchers working in autism, pediatrics, computer science, cognitive science, education, sociology, psychology, anthropology, information science, and more.

Topics of interest include (but are not limited to):
Empirical studies exploring issues related to autism that might be amenable to technological intervention;
Empirical studies of technologies in use to support individuals with ASD;
Methodologies for conducting research on technologies for autism;
New designs and technologies that support individuals with ASD, their friends, relatives, co-workers, and acquaintances;
Evaluation techniques for technologies for autism;
Case studies on the deployment and long-term use of technologies for autism.

Important Dates:
Papers to be submitted: August 16, 2010
Peer reviews completed: November 16, 2010
Revisions completed and submitted: January 1, 2011
Publication date: March/April 2011


To submit your paper, please email as PDF format to gillianrh@ics.uci.edu and kkarahal@cs.uiuc.edu

RELATED:

Here are a few of my posts related to technology, intervention, and autism spectrum disorders in some way. I hope that the links and references I've posted will be helpful to researchers in this important field of study and practice:

2006: Mega List of Resources and References:  Technology, Psychology, Intervention & Prevention

Technology and the 21st Century School Psychologist, Speech and Language Pathologist, Special Educator, Etc.

TPACK Framework:  Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge, Assistive Technology, and Universal Design for Learning

UPDATE:  Cognitive "bursts", technology-supported interventions, interactive whiteboards, digital storytelling, and reflections about a new SMARTTable.