A Preliminary Investigation: Potential of Interactive Multimedia Learning Awareness (IMLA) in Enhancing Awareness of Autistic Characteristics among Parents and Society in Malaysia

Abstract

In this article, we report the feedback from respondents in relation to the implementation of Interactive Multimedia Learning Awareness (IMLA) in enhancing awareness of autistic characteristics among parents and society in Malaysia. Methods of gathering information such as observation and interviews were used in order to identify the current level of awareness towards autistic children. Nine respondents were selected to participate in this interview ranging from two content experts from the National Autism Society of Malaysia (NASOM), a researcher who is also an expert in autism from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), a mother with autistic children, a mother without autistic children, two parents without autistic children and three unmarried women. The findings of this preliminary investigation confirm that there is a lack of awareness that needs to be addressed by Malaysian society. As a conclusion, the implementation of Interactive Multimedia Learning Awareness (IMLA) needs to be designed and developed to facilitate and to enhance the awareness of autistic characteristics in Malaysia.