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Humanoid Robots as an Autism Intervention Tool to Improve Social Behaviors and Understanding

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ObjectivesAt the end of the session, participants will:1. Understand why Robots4Autism was

developed2. Realize the benefits of robot therapy for

children with autism3. Recognize the research and experience

behind the curriculum and intervention expectations

4. Receive a description of the demonstration site program

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Who is RoboKind?Innovative leader in robotics industryNation’s top experts in robotics, artificial

intelligence, and electrical, mechanical and software engineering

Breakthrough technologyWorld’s most human-like robot

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Autism PrevalenceDramatic increase in the last 30 yearsOne in 88 children and one in 54 boys are

identified with autism spectrum disorders (Centers for Disease Control, March 2012)

Lifelong social and behavioral challenges

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Robots4Autism by RoboKindNext Generation of Autism Therapy • Breakthrough technology • Human-like expressive faces• Research-based curriculum• Innovative, engaging, motivates intrinsically• Robot-human interaction• Functioning body • Interactive lessons • Affordable

Expanding the Reach of Autism Professionals

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Autism Expert CollaborationPamela Rollins, M.S., Ed.E, CCC-SLPAssociate Professor - University of Texas-DallasCallier Center for Communication Disorders

M.S. – Communications Disorders – University of Wisconsin-MadisonEd.D. – Human Development and Psychology, Harvard University

• 30+ years autism research, teaching and clinical practice, extensively published

• Texas Council on Autism and other state leadership positions

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Autism Expert CollaborationMichelle N. McFarlin, MS, CCC-SLPFounding Director - White Rock Autism (a private practice specializing in educating and empowering parents of children newly diagnosed with autism)

M.S. - Communication Disorders - University of Texas at Dallas-Callier Center for Communication Disorders

Certified Speech-Language Pathologist

More than 16 years experience in clinical service, research and teachingShe has published and presented ASD related topics at the state and national level.  

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Reaching Children with AutismChallenged sociallyMechanically inclinedNeed non-threatening interactionsProblems processing biological motionUsing areas of strengths to address areas of

weakness

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Research Supports Use of Robots Vanderbilt University, University of Southern

California, RoboKindStudies show working with robot increases

AppealingEngagementSociabilitySpeakingImitation

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Why Robots4Autism?

• Willingness to interact with the Milo Robot• Non-threatening interactions• Intrinsically motivates children• Facilitates social skills development• Supplements traditional intervention

Technology Engaging Students with Autism

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Social Skills Curriculum Evidence-Based Practices • Social narratives• Video modeling• Principles of applied behavioral analysis

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Curriculum Models and PracticesStudents progress through carefully planned curriculum that includes:• Watching video models of target skills with social narratives• Identification practice• Real-life practice with the robot

Learning Topics Include:• Greetings• Conversations• Emotions• Calm down• Stress and relaxation  

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Future Curriculum• Developmentally lower students• Lay foundation for social development• Joint attention• Motor imitation• Beginning turn-taking• Ongoing research validation

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Seeking Partners• Guide the next generation of autism therapy• Matching Grant Partnership• Purchase a Robot with the curriculum• Work with students• Provide feedback

Help Pioneer the Future of Autism Treatment

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Questions and AnswersDo you have students who have difficulty

interacting with therapists and/or teachers? Have you had difficulty keeping children with

autism on track during a session?Would your institution be interested in

participating as a demonstration site to help develop this revolutionary therapy tool?

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Robots4AutismThank you for attendingClaude@robokindrobots.comVisit us at Booth 324