TASN-ATBS Webinar: The VOISS Social Skills Solution

Webinar Description:

This webinar will be presented live on Zoom. All TASN-ATBS webinars are recorded and archived on the KSDETASN website and the TASN-ATBS Moodle site.

It is well known that social interactions can be challenging for autistic children and teens. While research has shown that practicing these interactions as often as possible is key to long-term development and improvement, it can be difficult to repeat or practice in person as much as a child needs to feel confident.

The solution may be found in virtual reality applications being developed by researchers at the University of Kansas. The VOISS, or Virtual Reality Opportunities to Integrate Social Skills, walks users through a variety of potential social interactions. It can be presented on a tablet or laptop, or used with a virtual reality headset.

Dr. Sean J. Smith will discuss how VOISS can help us better support our students in developing the social skills they need for successful interactions in the hallway, at the store, and throughout their lifetime.

Presenter Information:

Sean J. Smith, Ph.D., is a Professor in the Department of Special Education at the University of Kansas. He is also the Past President of the technology division for the Council for Exceptional Children, Innovations in Special Education Technology (ISET), and a member of the Board for the National Down syndrome Congress. Dr. Smith’s research interests focus on innovations and technology solutions to support struggling learners and those with disabilities, particularly interventions aligned with the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Framework. At present, Dr. Smith is the Principal Investigator on a federally funded project exploring the impact of virtual reality on struggling learners in the area of social-emotional development. Sean has authored over 100 books and articles, given hundreds of scholarly presentations both nationally and internationally, and serves on various boards for journals, organizations, and parent groups focused on enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities. Dr. Smith, with a variety of collaborators, has received and managed over $25 million of external research and development funds. Most importantly, Sean is the father of four children, one having Down syndrome. It is through this work as a father that Sean has sought to apply his knowledge of effective practices with parents, family members, and similar stakeholders as we look to enhance the lives of our children, ALL of our children!