Infocommunication technologies to support the autonomy of autistic children. Evaluations based on systematic literature research

Autism is a specific developmental pathway that leads to diverse cognitive and behavioural patterns. Digital technologies can play an important role in supporting the autonomy of autistic people. The aim of this study is to evaluate apps that support the autonomy of autistic children. Our research is based on a systematic literature review following the PRISMA guidelines. Based on the inclusion/exclusion criteria, eight international and one Hungarian app were evaluated. The apps are not supported by proper research but have tended to adapt evidence-based methods to a digital platform. The Hungarian DATA system has several advantages: it can be individualised, has a wide range of functions and is accompanied by research. Overall, we see encouraging trends, but there is an unavoidable need for high-quality research to evaluate the effects of digital versions of evidence-based methods.