RoboTea

Therapies with robots for children with autism.

Recent studies confirm that, for children with ASD, the imitation and the acquisition of joint attention improve in the environments in which the technological tools are involved. Considering that, patients with ASD tend to learn more about the interaction with technology than with humans, robots could have the potential to be used in ASD therapies.

The goal of the new IRD research is to develop robot-assisted psychological interventions to improve clinical efficacy in children with autism spectrum disorder.

Recent studies confirm that, for children with ASD, the imitation and the acquisition of joint attention improve in the environments in which the technological tools are involved. Considering that, patients with ASD tend to learn more about the interaction with technology than with humans, robots could have the potential to be used in ASD therapies.

For this, the IRD will use an affordable social robot such as Cozmo (https://anki.com) together with the required sensors (for example, external microphone, camera, etc.) to develop psychological interventions for children with ASD. This type of robots are very attractive, they can play videos and sounds on their touch screen, they have mobility, they are programmable and of low cost.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the most common childhood development disorders. It is characterized by restricted patterns of behaviour and interests and qualitative deficiencies in communication and social interaction. These symptoms arise early and persist in development. Although symptoms appear to decrease during adolescence and adulthood, it is considered that ASD is a chronic disability. Most people with ASD require professional attention throughout their lives and, therefore, require a great physical, economic and emotional effort to society.

Additional Information

The Obra Social “la Caixa” has selected the IRD to carry out this solution within the framework of its Program of Aid to Projects of Social Initiatives 2018, with which they promote independent living, autonomy and quality of life of people with disabilities and also those who, due to aging or illness, suffer from the deterioration of their abilities and their health.

The project also has the collaboration of the Villablanca Foundation of the Pere Mata Group that has set up a specialized residence in TEA.

In collaboration with:

Fundació Obra Social “la Caixa”
Fundació Ave Maria
Villablanca Serveis Assistencials