Track: Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

Robotics has been applied to assist autistic people with different approaches and therapy goals. In this paper, we describe the results of an exploratory analysis of research approaches, methods and paradigms that frequently are used and reported. Our critical perspective seeks links to the social responsibility in terms of inclusive employability and equity. We have found that research is geared towards robotic assistance to therapists typically to improve relationship skills. The use of robots, moreover, implies that specialists are not necessarily present all the time so it is essential that autistic people accept the robot as a supporting technology.

We conclude that is common to find research that focus on experimental design with a robot action in scheduled moments, physically controlled when people are exposed. In addition, experiments with robotics applications in virtual worlds interconnected with “physical world” under a cyber-physical concept are not frequently considered. However, evidence of validated progress in clinical terms is not conclusive, so this seems to be a real limitation for employability increase of autistic people. Also, research with rigorous methods aimed at obtaining robust clinical results is a great opportunity, especially if a strong link is made in increasing the employability of autistic people.