Human-robot interaction as a model for autism therapy: an experimental study with children with autism

Iain Werry, K. Dautenhahn

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter (peer-reviewed)

Abstract

Human-robot interaction is a quickly growing area of research. While most projects deal with typically developing subjects, the particular study that we report on in this chapter investigates interactions of children
with autism with a mobile robot. We briefly motivate this approach, and then present results from a particular experimental study. This comparative study provides evidence that the robot is able to engage the children in
interaction better than a conventional toy. These results are important since they highlight the potential of using robots in therapy and education of children with autism.
Moreover, the work emphasizes the emergent, pro-active, and embodied nature of interaction, as applied to humanrobot interaction. These studies, carried out as part of human-robot interaction research in assistive technology
might serve as a model for future medical intervention using robots in autism therapy.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationModeling Biology
Subtitle of host publicationStructures, Behaviors, Evolution
EditorsManfred D. Laubichler, Gerd B. Muller
PublisherMIT Press
Pages283-299
ISBN (Print)978-0-262-12291-7, 0-262-12291-X
Publication statusPublished - 2007

Publication series

NameVienna Series in Theoretical Biology
PublisherMIT Press

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