The Feasibility of executive function training program using augmented reality on social skills children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder

This study aimed to investigate the Feasibility of the executive functions training program using augmented reality on social skills in high-functioning children with autism spectrum disorder. The research was conducted using a semi-experimental method with a pre-test-post-test design and a control group with a three-month follow-up period. The statistical population of the study included all children with autism spectrum disorder with high functioning in Tehran in 2023- 2024. After screening the research sample according to the entry and exit criteria, eligible children were included in the study and randomly assigned to two experimental (15 people) and control (15 people) groups. The research tool included Gilliam's autism diagnostic scale - Second Edition (1994). The variance analysis method with repeated measurements was used to analyze the data. The findings showed that the executive functions training program using augmented reality had a significant effect on the control group in the two stages of post-test and follow-up (p<0.001). Also, the effect size showed a 0.29% effect of the executive functions training program using augmented reality on social skills. It is concluded that to improve social skills in children with autism spectrum disorder, augmented reality can be used to teach executive functions.