People With Autism Turn to ChatGPT for Advice on Workplace Issues
A recent study conducted by Carnegie Mellon University has shed light on how individuals with autism are turning to artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT for guidance on workplace challenges. Led by Andrew Begel from the School of Computer Science, the research team uncovered that while many individuals with autism find ChatGPT and similar AI tools helpful, there is also a significant debate within the autism community regarding the appropriateness of utilizing chatbots for support.
The VariAbility Lab, headed by Begel, aims to create inclusive workplaces where individuals with disabilities, including those who are neurodivergent, can thrive. With high rates of unemployment and underemployment among adults with autism, it is crucial to provide resources to help them navigate social and communication difficulties in the workplace.
In an experiment involving 11 participants with autism, the researchers compared the advice received from ChatGPT to that from a disguised human career counselor. Surprisingly, the participants expressed a preference for the chatbot’s straightforward and easy-to-digest answers, despite some of the advice being questionable. While the chatbot offered quick responses in a clear format, the counselor engaged in more dialogue and questioning, which some participants found less appealing.
Although the study revealed a preference for the chatbot among participants, there were concerns raised about the quality of advice provided. For example, when asked about making friends at work, the chatbot suggested approaching people directly, a strategy that may not align with the comfort levels of individuals with autism.
While some view chatbots as practical tools for supporting autistic workers, others in the autism community see them as potentially disregarding the perspectives and needs of individuals with autism. There is an ongoing debate about whose viewpoints are prioritized in the development of technology aimed at assisting individuals with autism.
Moving forward, there is a need to involve individuals with autism in research and development processes to ensure that technology solutions effectively meet their needs and preferences. By actively seeking input from the autism community, researchers can develop more tailored and beneficial tools to support individuals with autism in various aspects of their lives.
The study’s findings were presented at the Association for Computing Machinery’s Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems (CHI 2024) and highlight the importance of considering diverse perspectives in the design and implementation of technology solutions for individuals with autism. Through collaborative efforts and inclusive practices, we can work towards creating a more supportive and accommodating environment for individuals with autism in the workplace and beyond.
