To clarify the conceptual distinctions between engagement, motivation, and sustained attention in technology-based interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), emphasizing the need for clearer definitions.
Key Findings:
Observable indicators like gaze and time-on-task are often misinterpreted as measures of engagement and motivation, impacting the effectiveness of interventions.
Technology may enhance sustained attention in ASD by providing predictable structure and sensory coherence, which should be leveraged in future interventions.
A clearer operationalization of engagement and motivation is necessary for accurate interpretation of intervention outcomes, guiding future research and practice.
Interpretation:
Increased on-task behavior may reflect sustained attention rather than genuine engagement or motivation, necessitating a reevaluation of how technology's impact is assessed in ASD interventions and its implications for future research.
Limitations:
The reliance on observable indicators may obscure the true psychological processes at play, including potential biases in existing studies.
Existing studies may not adequately differentiate between engagement, motivation, and sustained attention, limiting their applicability.
Conclusion:
Improving conceptual precision and measurement practices is essential to accurately interpret intervention outcomes and understand the role of technology in supporting autistic individuals, with a focus on practical applications.
