Inclusive Interviews Codesigned With Individuals on the Autism Spectrum: Job Interview Training Using VR Technologies and Blueprint for Employers

Abstract

This is a report on the research of using Virtual Reality (VR) technologies and Video Self-Modeling (VSM) method to restructure job interviews so that individuals on the autism spectrum could have more successful job interview performance. The report informs on using VR technology for job interview training implementing different structure of behavioural interview questions. The participatory research consisted of two parts. Part 1 included codesign evolution and deployment while part 2 focused on codesign assessment and modification. It resulted in app creation with scaffolding sequence of behavioural interview questions intended to address different verbal and cognitive abilities of individuals on the autism spectrum. It prompted creation of technologies and methods such as Interview Guide for Employers, and specific questions input, that can affect all the parties in the employment system from individuals on the autism spectrum, employers, employment agencies and various support programs. Most of all, this iterative process illustrated a way on how to communicate more effectively with individuals on the autism spectrum.