Training autistic youth for job interviews using virtual reality
Official title: A Hybrid Effectiveness-Implementation RCT of Virtual Interview Training for Autistic Transition-Age Youth
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11094811 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a fun virtual reality program to help young people with autism practice their job interview skills, making it easier for them to get ready for the workforce with support from local teachers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $761,179 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH132656-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11094811 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are autistic transition-age youth who are preparing to enter the workforce.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not on the autism spectrum or who are not in the transition-age group may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving job interview preparation for autistic transition-age youth through a Virtual Interview Training program. The program utilizes a virtual reality simulator that provides automated feedback and e-learning content to help participants practice their interview skills in a controlled environment. By partnering with local teachers, the training aims to be accessible and effective, addressing the specific needs of autistic individuals as they prepare to enter the workforce. The study will assess the effectiveness and implementation of this innovative training approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance job interview skills and employment opportunities for autistic youth.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using virtual reality for training purposes, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Matthew James — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Smith, Matthew James
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.