How Apps are Used by and with Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Scoping Study with Stakeholder Consultation

The number of smartphone- and tablet-applications, or apps, for health and wellbeing continues to grow at a rapid pace. This scoping study identified articles reporting on the use of apps by and with individuals with autism. Professionals and parents of children with autism also completed a questionnaire as part of stakeholder consultation. Of the 40 studies identified, 28 reported on the use of apps specifically designed for autism, with clearly the most frequently being the communication support app Proloquo2Go. Other uses include assistance in the teaching and maintenance of social and life skills as well as faciliation in the delivery of behavioral interventions. Stakeholders confirmed the importance of apps to assist communication. While empirical data are available on the effectiveness of apps for augmentative and alternative communication, areas for further research include the functionality and effectiveness of apps for delivery of behavioral interventions and educational games for individuals with autism.