Designing Learning Spaces for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Although the problems and disabilities caused by autism spectrum disorders are constant companions to these individuals, timely treatment interventions can provide the necessary grounds for their empowerment., However, one thing that deserves attention is that  regular learning environments are not often designed to meet the needs and moods of children with autism spectrum disorder. Likewise, architects designing learning spaces for these people have insufficeint information about the sensory problems of these children. hence unable to design proper learning spaces for these people. Therefore, the current study aimed to review the related studies to provide solutions for designing appropriate learning spaces for children with autism spectrum disorder. Regarding the importance of adapting learning spaces for autistic children based on “Disability Protection Act” various suggestions have been offered by different studies. The present research shows that previous studies have emphasized on the following issues: 1) Simple and organized construction layout; 2) provision of both large and small spaces; 3) predictability 4) Child’s maximum control on environment; 5) communication of purpose; 6) way finding; 7) designing for social interaction. Regarding the restrictions in this area in Iran, it seems necessary to undertake actions for designing learning spaces specific to children with autism spectrum disorder.