How Do Typically Developing Children and Children with ASD Play a Tangible Game?

A tangible user interface (TUI) brings a strong educational potential for both typically developing children and children with ASD, as it fosters tactile stimulation, development of cognitive skills and perceptual skills. However, no previous research has compared the commonalities and differences of using TUI for both groups in low-resource countries. This study examines the nature of using TUI in children with autism (ages 3–5; n = 14) compared to typically developing children (ages 3–5; n = 10) along with their performance in game-play. We used an iPad-based Picture to Object Mapping Activity (POMA) game that utilised tangible components using 30 interactive pretend play toys. We collected video recordings and logs of the POMA application to explore the commonalities and differences of using TUI among both groups of children. Results indicated that children with ASD performed lower than the typically developing children in group activities; however, both groups showed similar performance in individual activities. Furthermore, we observed children with ASD had difficulties in using TUI (e.g. placing the tangibles on the iPad) when compared to typically developing children. Based on our findings, we propose recommendations for developing low-cost TUI for children with ASD in Sri Lanka.