Virtual Reality Job Interview Training in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

The feasibility and efficacy of Virtual Reality Job Interview Training (VR-JIT) was assessed in a single-blinded randomized controlled trial. Adults with autism spectrum disorder were randomized to VR-JIT (n=16) or treatment as usual (TAU) (n=10) groups. VR-JIT consisted of simulated job interviews with a virtual character and didactic training. Participants attended 90% of lab-based training sessions and found VR-JIT easy-to-use, enjoyable, and they felt prepared for future interviews. VR-JIT participants had greater improvement during live standardized job interview role-play performances than TAU participants (p=0.046). A similar pattern was observed for self-reported self-confidence at a trend level (p=0.060). VR-JIT simulation performance scores increased over time (R-Squared=0.83). Results indicate preliminary support for the feasibility and efficacy of VR-JIT, which can be administered using computer software or via the internet.

Trends in Employment for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Review of the Research Literature

“…The intensive challenges during their job interviews caused by social deficits were frequently reported among people with ASD, especially those with Asperger's and high-functioning ASD (Mawhood and Howlin 1999;Smith et al 2014;Strickland et al 2013). Müller et al (2003) indicated that poor interview performances limited job opportunities for people on the spectrum, regardless of their working capability.…”

“…Positive results showed that youth who completed the training program demonstrated significantly more effective interview skills than those who did not. Another virtual reality program for interview skills training was developed by Smith et al (2014). The research indicated that participants in the treatment group greatly improved more on their interview performance than those in the control group.…”

Brief Report: A Pilot Study of the Use of a Virtual Reality Headset in Autism Populations

“…In summary, through two decades of research examining the role of VRTs for people with ASD, and the promising results of various studies (Cobb, 2007;Maskey, Lowry, Rodgers, McConachie, & Parr, 2014;Parsons & Cobb, 2011;Parsons et al, 2005Parsons et al, , 2006Smith et al, 2014;2015, Strickland et al, 1996, 2007, 2013, we are well placed to continue investigating further these tools and technologies for this specific user-group. This is especially the case as new technology has since evolved considerably and the nature of VR experiences change.…”

Virtual Reality as an Assistive Technology to Support the Cognitive Development of People With Intellectual and Multiple Disabilities

“…Authors concluded that VR is effective in the treatment of people with intellectual and multiple disabilities. In [Smith et al 2014], the feasibility of a virtual reality job interview training was evaluated with adults with Autism. Authors conclude that it is an accessible strategy for improving community-based outcomes among people with ASD, and stated VR-based training may be a efficacious tool to improve job interview skills for those individuals.…”