Experiencing neurodiverse phenomenology (ENP): An autism case study

In order to promote awareness about neurodiversity among the neurotypical population, we have developed, together with BBC and Atos, "Experiencing neurodiverse phenomenology (ENP): An autism case study" an interactive virtual reality simulation to experience the oversensory stimulation that an individual with autism may experience in a natural environment. With ENP, users experience a first-person perspective in a classroom where a teacher is presenting a lecture while he/she is confronted with sensory distortions which are commonly experienced by persons with autism. ENP includes a virtual reality headset with motion tracking, two wireless controllers for interaction, and a wristband for physiological data acquisition to create a closed feedback loop. We use this information to modulate the intensity of auditory and visual stimuli simulating a vicious cycle in which increased arousal translates into increased oversensory stimulation. In this session, we will present the project behind the development of this experience.