Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) for Children with Autism to Augment Communication Skills

Abstract

This paper presents a case study of robot-based intervention program for children with autism. The study focuses on two-way communication between children with autism and a humanoid robot NAO. The aim of this study is to develop a set of teaching and learning modules on communication through question type conversation and song-based approach. Module developed in this study is programmed using NAOs choregraphe, being imbedded later on and perform action. Both children participating in this study can communicate verbally and have been diagnosed with mild autism. Response from this exposure shows that the human toddler-like robot can be used as a platform to augment and facilitate communication effectively with children with autism.