This research explores autistic university students’ experiences navigating sensory challenges and communication differences on campus. It highlights the “double empathy problem,” where misunderstandings occur between autistic and non-autistic individuals. Using applied linguistics, the study argues that mutual understanding is essential to ensure equitable access to education and improve student well-being and inclusion.

This research develops a framework for designing haptic technologies in virtual reality that balance immersion and practicality. By accounting for differences in body sensitivity, it introduces affordable, scalable devices—gloves, facial haptics, jackets, and floors—that enable full-body tactile feedback, bringing realistic touch into VR experiences.