A Digital Storytelling Approach for Fostering Empathy Towards Autistic Children: Lessons learned

Abstract

In this paper a case study in which interactive digital storytelling was exploited for fostering empathy towards children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is presented. The research population consisted mainly by Kindergarten children. Based on the findings and the overall experience, even considering the design mistakes that occurred, this paper argues upon the deriving value of exploiting multimodal digital representations in the form of a story in order to cultivate empathy towards children with ASD and thus, facilitate social interaction and inclusion. This approach can be useful in mixed population classrooms, but in a wider educational context as well.