In this seminar, Dr Matt Schmidt will present and demonstrate the “Virtuoso-SVVR” system, a low-cost spherical video-based virtual reality (SVVR) system that his team developed at the University of Cincinnati. Virtuoso-SVVR was created to help adults with autism learn to use public transportation safely and appropriately. The system was developed using common, off-the-shelf components and a variety of open-source software tools. Using an Android app, the system streams 360-degree videos that can be viewed using Google Cardboard and Google Daydream head-mounted displays.

Matt will discuss the design, development, implementation, and formative evaluation of a the SVVR mobile app from the perspectives of the user experience, feasibility, relevance and usability. The evaluation was conducted in two phases and consisted of expert review with four content experts and structured usage testing with five adults with autism. Results indicate that participants with autism found the intervention to be easy to use and reported an overall positive user-experience; results from expert review indicate that this is a feasible, relevant, and easy-to-use intervention. Developed in the context of a learning intervention for adults with autism, the general approach will be of interest to any researchers, developers and educators interested in VR.

Biography

As an applied researcher in the field of Instructional Design and Technology, Dr Schmidt's research focuses on the design, development, implementation, and evaluation of innovative educational courseware and computer software with a focus on individuals with disabilities. His research is tightly coupled with design and development work and is grounded in iterative reflexive inquiry approaches such as design-based research, rapid prototyping, and action research. Dr. Schmidt has performed research and development centred on designing immersive and mobile learning environments for individuals with autism, epilepsy, and traumatic brain injuries. He has also developed methods and processes for supporting teachers' integration of mobile technologies in their instruction.

Publications

Glaser, N. J., & Schmidt, M. (2018). Usage considerations of 3D collaborative virtual learning environments to promote development and transfer of knowledge and skills for individuals with autism. Technology, Knowledge and Learning, 1–8.

Hale, V. P., & Schmidt, M. (2018). Advancing Social Narrative Intervention Tools for Students with Autism: The Role of Educational Technology. In Educational Technology and Narrative (pp. 113–127). Springer.

Schmidt, M., Schmidt, C., Glaser, N., Beck, D., Lim, M., & Palmer, H. (2019). Evaluation of a spherical video-based virtual reality intervention designed to teach adaptive skills for adults with autism: a preliminary report. Interactive Learning Environments, 1–20.