Crafting Social Robots for Neurodiverse Individuals: Prospects and Challenges
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Chandra, Ankith Neel
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This study explores the potential of robotic dogs as tools for neurodivergent individuals in therapy, focusing on their socio-emotional well-being. The limitations of traditional animal therapy were considered, as we investigated the design and impact of robotic dogs as another option. Two robot dog models, Aibo and A1, were introduced to neurodivergent students in a university setting, putting them in various workshops to assess their responses, preferences, and difficulties. The study's methodology included co-design workshops where students interacted with the robot dogs. They then created use case storyboards and addressed potential robot failures. Through these interactions, students' perceptions of the robots' physical appearance, responsiveness, and potential use cases in daily life were examined. The findings revealed a preference for robot dogs combining Aibo's dog-like and more approachable appearance with A1's responsive behavior. They didn’t appreciate Aibo’s lack of quick decision making and A1’s robotic and unnatural look. Students wanted robot dogs in diverse roles, from companionship and emotional support to practical tasks like safety monitoring. A significant part of the study involved understanding student responses to robot malfunctions or failures. Students expressed a desire for clear communication from the robots during failures, indicating a need for intuitive and empathetic design in robotic companions.
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Undergraduate Research Option Thesis