Investigating a robot as a therapy partner for children with autism

Werry, I., Dautenhahn, K. and Harwin, W. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3928-3381 (2001) Investigating a robot as a therapy partner for children with autism. In: 5th European Conference for the Advancement of Assistive Technology: added value to the quality of life (AAATE '01), 3-6 Sep 2001, Ljubljana, Slovenia, pp. 374-378.

Abstract/Summary

The aurora project is investigating the possibility of using a robotic platform as a therapy aid for--children with autism. Because of the nature of this disability, the robot could be beneficial in its ability--to present the children with a safe and comfortable environment and allow them to explore and learn--about the interaction space involved in social situations. The robotic platform is able to present--information along a limited number of channels and in a manner which the children are familiar with--from television and cartoons. Also, the robot is potentially able to adapt its behaviour and to allow the--children to develop at their own rates. Initial trial results are presented and discussed, along with the--rationale behind the project and its goals and motivations. The trial procedure and methodology are--explained and future work is highlighted.