The Extended Reality for Autistic Drivers (XRAD) project is using XR simulators to develop tools which could help autistic people overcome barriers and difficulties faced when driving a car.
The XRAD project, led by the University of Exeter and the University of Bath, University of Nottingham and National Autistic Society, is working with a large team of autistic people that includes qualified drivers and non-drivers, guiding the development process to deliver an experience that allows autistic people to practice driving in an environment that is tailor-made to overcome individual boundaries and difficulties.
The insight, viewpoints and experiences of the co-design team will be combined with the experience of researchers in a variety of workshops using XR technologies, including VR, AR, and driving simulator equipment, to focus on which systems are built and how they deliver results in practice.
Insight from the sessions will be combined with findings from recent psychology and simulation-based research from the Virtual Immersive Training and Learning (VITAL) team at the University of Exeter, as well as emerging XR innovations such as real-time eye tracking analyses and adaptive learning experiences.
Key decisions on the project are being made by a steering group of autistic people to ensure that the research represents the preferences and priorities of neurodivergent people.
The use of XR simulators could help with the social and sensory challenges associated with driving, aiming to make the learning process smoother for autistic people.
Dr Tom Arthur, XRAD research lead, University of Exeter, commented: “We know autistic people can find public transport inaccessible and for some, driving a car can make for a more comfortable and predictable journey. But research suggests autistic people often experience wide-ranging challenges on the road and are less likely to get a driving licence. By focusing on real-world driving challenges and barriers, we hope this project will help promote independence and increase access for autistic people to employment, education, healthcare, and leisure activities.”
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