Desde una mirada etnográfica:Fortaleciendo el desarrollo comunicativo de una persona con condición de Trastorno del Espectro Autista (TEA)

Abstract

Abstract: Communication is one of the most important aspects of human growth and participation. This process fosters relationships, connections, and the expression of needs, desires, and feelings, producing the exchange of information required for learning and perceiving the surrounding environment. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects social and emotional development, which ultimately impacts participation and independence of persons with autism. As part of educational and therapeutic contexts, mediating tools are identified and applied that allow scenarios of communication to be practiced in a predictable and structured manner. To increase confidence and independence by strengthening effective communication, students should better understand and use verbal and non-verbal cues, structure language, increase vocabulary, and follow logical communication sequences. By utilizing universal pictograms of the Augmentative and Alternative Communication System (SAAC), OTTAA Project promotes social integration and participation, facilitating communicative interactions, providing digital voice, adapting to the interests of the user and utilizing pedagogical principles to teach and learn. This research will answer the following question: How does the OTTAA App serve as a pedagogical tool for strengthening the communication development of individuals with autism spectrum disorders? The research focuses on a critical-social stance, inspired by Freirean thinking, which allows for reasoning, reflection, and action. This study is cross-sectional, using ethnographic case studies, allowing for a deeper understanding of the context and needs of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders, and providing a significant resource for caregivers, therapists, teachers and families on how to use the mobile application for educational purposes.