Developing a technology enabled workflow to aid space layout communication for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder - A project case study

Abstract

Within the higher education sector there has been a shift towards flexible teaching and learning spaces that can be re-imagined and re-organised depending on the teaching approach to be employed. While this has undoubted benefits in terms of student engagement, innovative delivery, and exciting learning approaches, it potentially presents a challenge for a student group, those with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), that has not been fully considered to this point. This study draws upon advances in the Architectural Technology discipline to develop a methodology which can assist in designing and communicating proposed teaching environments, with a particular focus on the potential to benefit students with ASD. The methodology is presented in the form of a case study. The aim is to assist designers and end users in analysing and defining the necessary links to evaluate solutions for the layout planning of spaces, determining functionality and whether proposals are feasible. The output obtained from this workflow elevates its potential in aiding space layout planning, helping those who need assistance in understanding newly formed layouts.