Computer-aided learning for people with autism - a framework for research and development

There is good evidence that computer-aided learning is well accepted by stu dents with autism and is of great potential benefit to them. Despite the po tential, however, the field remains relatively unexplored. This paper there fore proposes a framework for further research and development in the field of computer-aided learning for students with autism. The framework is base d around the core deficiencies of autism, namely a social impairment, a com munication impairment, rigidity and inflexibility in thinking and a theory of mind deficit. Proposals for computer-aided learning systems for each of these areas are put forward, and our current development work outlined.