An interdisciplinary approach to investigating the use of virtual reality environments for people with Asperger syndrome

Abstract Asperger syndrome is a disorder which can greatly affect an individual’s ability to relate on a social level. Asperger Syndrome Interactive is a project which assesses the potential use of virtual reality environments to develop social skills among people with Asperger syndrome. The project incorporates a user-centred design developed in a multidisciplinary setting. This paper outlines the collaborative methodology of the project which incorporates several disciplines from the University of Nottingham in partnership with the National Autistic Society. It provides a rationale for the project and discusses issues arising from the first six months of the research.