Novel Augmented Reality Enhanced Solution towards Vocational Training for People with Mental Disabilities

Augmented Reality is widely recognized as the next computing platform and has found applications in various sectors, including training, education, entertainment, engineering, etc. Although AR has been applied to cognitive training for people with neurological and psychiatric conditions, there is a huge potential in its use within the field of vocational rehabilitation for persons with psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disabilities. In this paper, we present a novel AR enhanced solution towards vocational rehabilitation for people with a range of cognitively functional levels. Multiple immersive training scenarios are designed and developed with a target of allowing users to develop their vocational skills which is evaluated by the Feasibility Evaluation Checklist. Proper user interface design approach was deployed with considerations given to the target users. The solution also supports multiplayer mode thus allowing the therapists to keep track of vital performance data of the users in the co-immersed AR environment. A user study was conducted with satisfying results achieved.