Exploring Neurodiversity Through Virtual Reality

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.

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.