Abstract

This study explored the research literature on children and youth with ASD with the goal of establishing a solid knowledge-base on the a) prevalence of ASD, b) definition of ASD, c) instructional needs of students with ASD, and d) effective interventions for students with ASD (technology-focused and computer-based included). The study also aimed at investigating teachers’ understandings and experiences toward using technology such as computers, tablets and smartphones, at home, school, and in daily life activities to improve students’ with ASD skills. The study followed the case study methodology. The sample included one special education teacher. The study used observation and interview to collect data from her classroom, a preschool classroom, where 4 observations and 2 interviews were conducted over a period of two months. The results revealed that the teacher’s experience showed the importance of using technology with student with autism, which helped her to calm the students down and learn by using the iPad and Tap-it. There is still a highly need to conduct more research on the use of technology with students with ASD and related issues. Also, future research should explore types of training that would help teachers’ with ASD use technology more effectively and improve their understanding and awareness about the importance of using technology with these students.