ASDLAF - A novel Autism Spectrum Disorder Learning Application Framework for Saudi adults

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental disorder that causes difficulties in social interaction and communication for individuals with ASD. Although many studies about autism have been conducted across the world especially in Western countries, the topic is still in its infancy stage in developing countries. In particular, little is known about ASD in Saudi Arabia. With the increase of autism prevalence, it is noticeable that there is a lack of services for ASD people - especially adults. In this context, this study reviews and outlines the current situation with ASD services for adults in Saudi Arabia and how technology has supported the autism society in the region. This position paper advances the literature by developing a proposed novel Autism spectrum disorder learning application framework (ASDLAF) to investigate how ASD learning applications can help adults in Saudi Arabia by discovering and assessing factors that most influence the adoption of ‘ASD learning applications’. The paper also outlines the methodology to be followed for ASDLAF evaluation. The result provides a comprehensive blueprint for applications developers and offers salient insights for the Saudi government for special education improvements.