The contribution of digital platforms to integrating children with autism spectrum disorder into society

Abstract

This research, titled "The Contribution of Digital Platforms to the Integration of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder into Society," is a field study conducted on parents of children with autism spectrum disorder in the city of Al-Marj. The study aimed to identify the contribution of digital platforms to the social integration process, determine the level and types of digital platforms used by parents, identify challenges that limit their effectiveness, and present proposals to enhance their use. The research employed a descriptive field methodology, deemed most suitable for the nature of the topic. A digital questionnaire was used to collect data after its validity and reliability were verified. The questionnaire was administered to a sample of 58 parents of children with autism spectrum disorder who expressed their willingness to participate. Participants were selected using convenience sampling. The study reached several conclusions, most notably that the majority of the sample use digital platforms with their children to varying degrees, and that educational video platforms were the most frequently used, given their clear role in developing social interaction skills. The results also showed a growing awareness among parents of the importance of digital platforms in supporting social inclusion.

Conversely, the research revealed several obstacles that limit the effective use of digital platforms, most notably the lack of specialized guidance, the scarcity of Arabic digital content targeting this group, and the limited technical knowledge of some parents. Based on these findings, the study recommended strengthening the role of educational and media institutions in producing targeted digital content for children with autism spectrum disorder, organizing awareness and training programs for parents on how to use these platforms, creating Arabic digital content specifically for this group, and supporting community initiatives that contribute to promoting a culture of social inclusion.