Leo con lula, introducing global reading methods to children with ASD

Abstract

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) show difficulties in reading skills acquisition with syllabic methods (used in ordinary schools). So that, specific learning methodologies are needed. Thanks to their good visual competences, global reading methods seem to be very useful. This paper presents a technology-driven serious game, based on global reading methodologies and personalized experience to promote children' first contact with literacy skills. This app is called "Leo con Lula" ("reading with Lula", in Spanish) and it is available on mobile platforms. The paper reports about a pilot study with 9 children, aged 3 to 8 years old. The pilot is based on questionnaires and direct observation to gather teachers' thoughts, discover possible limitations and value game suitability as a tool in class context.