Gaze, Language, and Attention: Demonstrative Use and Joint Attention in High Functioning Autism Spectrum

• In Event: Neuroscience, AI, and Emotion in Education: Bridging Cognitive and Social Development

Abstract

This study explores how individuals with high-functioning autism spectrum (HFAS) and neurotypical peers use Turkish demonstratives (bu, şu, o) during a collaborative tangram task. Using dual eye-tracking and video recordings, we examined how gaze coordination and language interact in real time as participants alternated between speaker and listener roles. Findings showed that while şu was often used to shift attention and o to confirm joint focus, HFAS participants used bu more frequently to redirect attention. Cross-recurrence analysis revealed subtle misalignments in gaze behavior, and speakers adapted their language accordingly when interacting with HFAS partners. These results demonstrate the value of situated dialog tasks for identifying communicative patterns and offer insights for designing inclusive, interaction-sensitive learning environments that support neurodiverse learners.

Authors

• Alaz Aydın, Middle East Technical University

• Murat Perit Cakir, Middle East Technical University