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BACKGROUND	This pilot study investigated the efficacy of a novel virtual reality-cognitive rehabilitation ( VR-CR ) intervention to improve contextual processing of objects in children with autism .
BACKGROUND	Previous research supports that children with autism show deficits in contextual processing , as well as deficits in its elementary components : abstraction and cognitive flexibility .
METHODS	Four children with autism participated in a multiple-baseline , single-subject study .
METHODS	The children were taught how to see objects in context by reinforcing attention to pivotal contextual information .
RESULTS	All children demonstrated statistically significant improvements in contextual processing and cognitive flexibility .
RESULTS	Mixed results were found on the control test and changes in context-related behaviours .
CONCLUSIONS	Larger-scale studies are warranted to determine the effectiveness and usability in comprehensive educational programs .

