Federica Floris
Pioneer (United States), University of Genoa, Italian Institute of Technology
Papers
7
Total Citations
95
H-Index
4
About
Federica Floris is a leading researcher at the intersection of social robotics, cognitive science, and neurodevelopmental disorders, with a primary focus on autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Her work investigates how humanoid robots can serve as therapeutic tools to enhance social cognition, particularly theory of mind, in children with ASD. In her highly cited 2021 study, "Follow the White Robot," she demonstrated the efficacy of robot-assistive training in structured protocols, establishing a foundation for robot-mediated interventions. Floris introduced the concept of "artificial scaffolding," arguing that robots can augment social cognition by providing consistent, predictable support during skill acquisition—a framework that has garnered significant attention (24 citations, 2023). Her research also explores sensory sensitivity, showing that visual and hearing sensitivity affects robot-based training outcomes, and examines how motor sounds and imitation influence engagement. With cumulative citations exceeding 90, Floris’s randomized controlled trials and innovative methodologies are shaping the future of assistive robotics. Her work not only advances therapeutic practice but also redefines how technology can bridge gaps in social learning for neurodiverse populations.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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