Exploring Neurodiversity Through Virtual Reality

Breaking Power Imbalances in Experimental Research
Erscheinungsjahr 2026
ISBN: 978-3-032-19635-4
Verlag: Springer

Buch, Englisch, 183 Seiten, Format (B × H): 153 mm x 216 mm, Gewicht: 344 g

This book explores how virtual reality (VR) can be used to examine perceptual differences in neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with autism and ADHD, by introducing a new methodological framework. Through a participatory, person-centric, and arts-based approach, it challenges the dominant deficit-focused research paradigms by centring nonverbal expression, creativity, and lived experience.

The author addresses power imbalances in experimental research and the value of non-verbal and experiential modes of expression, unveiling the role of immersive technologies in creating more inclusive research environments. Drawing on qualitative and quantitative approaches, this volume shows how VR can serve as both a research platform and a therapeutic tool while addressing ethical and accessibility considerations, hence offering strategies for designing VR experiences that are both engaging and safe. A must-read for researchers, educators, and practitioners interested in neurodiversity, human-computer interaction, and immersive technologies, this book bridges a critical gap in the existing literature and offers new pathways for inclusive and ethical research inquiry, disability studies, and STS.

Zielgruppe

Research

Autoren/Hrsg.

Savickaite, Sarune

Fachgebiete

• Geisteswissenschaften Theater- und Filmwissenschaft | Andere Darstellende Künste Theaterwissenschaft
• Sozialwissenschaften Psychologie Allgemeine Psychologie Entwicklungspsychologie
• Mathematik | Informatik EDV | Informatik Informatik Virtuelle Realität, Erweiterte Realität
• Sozialwissenschaften Psychologie Allgemeine Psychologie Kognitionspsychologie
• Mathematik | Informatik EDV | Informatik Informatik Mensch-Maschine-Interaktion Ambient Intelligence, RFID, Internet der Dinge

Inhaltsverzeichnis

Chapter 1: Mapping Inner Worlds: Understanding Neurodiversity Through Perception.- Chapter 2: The Architecture of Difference: Theoretical Perspectives on Neurodivergent Cognition.- Chapter 3: Beyond the Lab: Virtual Reality as a Bridge Between Control and Experience.- Chapter 4: Lines of Perception: VR Drawing as Method and Expression.- Chapter 5: Beyond Words: Creativity, Communication, and Empowerment in VR.-  Chapter 6: The Fragile Balance: Ethics, Sensory Design, and Inclusion in VR (?).- Chapter 7: From Insight to Impact: Shaping the Next Generation of Immersive Neurodiversity Research.

Über Autor(innen)

Sarune Savickaite is an early career researcher and associate lecturer specializing in immersive education, neurodiversity, and cognitive psychology research at the University of Exeter, UK. Her work bridges psychology, education, and technology, with a strong emphasis on accessibility and inclusivity in immersive education, neurodiversity, virtual reality (VR) applications, and artificial intelligence (AI) in educational and therapeutic contexts.