Futures

Enhancing Human Connections through Socially Embodied Agents: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Human-Robot Interaction, (from page 20240505.)

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Summary

This dissertation explores the potential of socially embodied agents, such as robots, to enhance human connections and interactions. With the increasing presence of social robots in daily life, there is a pressing need to shift research from single-person to multi-person human-robot interactions (MHRI). The research comprises several projects: the DYADIC-MODEL, which studies interpersonal dynamics in parent-child interactions; the MHRI-DESIGN, which tests triadic interactions; and the MHRI-THEORY, which proposes a new design framework for adaptive MHRI. The goal is to develop personalized robot companions that can effectively engage with small groups while addressing the complexities introduced by multi-person dynamics, ultimately contributing to the responsible design of AI that promotes human flourishing.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Shift from Single-Person to Multi-Person Interactions Research is expanding from single-person robot interactions to include multi-person dynamics. Moving from individual-focused human-robot interactions to group-based interactions. In 10 years, robots may routinely facilitate group dynamics in various social contexts like education and therapy. The need for social robots to enhance group interactions and support human connections is driving this shift. 4
Development of Personalized Robot Companions Focus on creating fully autonomous personalized robot companions for social interactions. Transitioning from generic robots to personalized companions tailored for individual needs and preferences. Personalized robot companions may become commonplace in homes, providing tailored support for family interactions. The demand for effective social engagement and support in family settings is motivating the development of personalized robots. 5
Context-Generic Design Framework for Multi-Person HRI Introduction of a comprehensive design framework for multi-person human-robot interactions. Establishing a standardized approach to design multi-person interactions with robots. A unified framework may lead to more coherent and effective robot designs for diverse social interactions. The complexity of multi-person interactions necessitates a structured approach to design and evaluation. 4
Interpersonal Dynamics in Parent-Child-Robot Interactions Exploring the dynamics of parent-child interactions facilitated by robots. Understanding how robots influence parent-child relationship dynamics during shared activities. Robots may play a significant role in enhancing parent-child relationships and educational outcomes. The growing role of technology in family life is pushing for robots that can positively influence relationships. 4
Evaluation Methods for Long-Term Personalization Effectiveness Creating new evaluation methods to analyze robot personalization over time. Shifting from short-term interaction assessments to long-term effectiveness evaluations. Evaluation methods may evolve to ensure robots are effective companions over extended periods. The need for accountability and effectiveness in robot companions drives the development of new evaluation methods. 3

Concerns

name description relevancy
Potential harm of AI on human relationships The increasing presence of AI agents in everyday life could negatively affect human-to-human connections. 5
Inadequate research in multi-person human-robot interaction Existing single-person interaction frameworks may fail to address complexities in group dynamics, leading to ineffective social robot designs. 4
Challenges in designing adaptive multi-person AI interactions The need for robust design frameworks for adaptive interactions with robots in group settings remains underexplored and unresolved. 4
Ethical implications of robot behavior in family interactions The introduction of robots in intimate settings, like parent-child relationships, poses ethical concerns regarding influence and dependency. 5
Measurement of robot personalization effectiveness Determining the effectiveness of long-term personalized interactions with robots presents challenges in evaluation methods. 3

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Socially Embodied Agents Exploring the role of socially embodied agents in enhancing human-human connections and social intelligence. 5
Multi-Person Human-Robot Interaction (MHRI) Shifting focus from single-person to multi-person interactions with robots, emphasizing group dynamics and roles. 5
Designing Adaptive Robot Companions Developing personalized robot companions that can engage in long-term social interactions with humans. 4
Context-Generic Design Frameworks Creating frameworks that unify robot behavior design and adaptation for multi-person interactions. 4
Affective Sensing Models for Robots Designing models that allow robots to sense and respond to human emotions in group settings. 4
Human-Centered Robot Design Taking a human-centered approach in designing next-generation robot companions for specific contexts like reading. 4
Evaluating Long-Term Personalization in Robots Developing new methods to assess the effectiveness of robots’ long-term personalization in interactions. 3

Technologies

description relevancy src
Robots designed to facilitate and enhance social interactions among humans, promoting positive relationships and communication. 5 1e9f4952ea0047cd20c65536966ab0e7
Expanding social robot interaction research from single-person to multi-person contexts, focusing on group dynamics and interactions. 5 1e9f4952ea0047cd20c65536966ab0e7
A novel design framework for creating adaptive interactions between robots and multiple human users, integrating behavior design and adaptation. 4 1e9f4952ea0047cd20c65536966ab0e7
Models that enable robots to perceive and respond to human emotions in multi-person interactions, enhancing relational dynamics. 4 1e9f4952ea0047cd20c65536966ab0e7
Fully autonomous robots tailored for long-term social engagement and interaction with specific human users, particularly in family contexts. 5 1e9f4952ea0047cd20c65536966ab0e7

Issues

name description relevancy
Social Embodiment in AI Exploring how socially embodied agents can enhance human connections and promote positive interactions. 4
Multi-Person Human-Robot Interaction (MHRI) The shift from single-person to multi-person contexts in human-robot interaction research. 5
Responsible AI Design The need for responsible design principles in AI to prevent harm to human relationships. 5
Affective Sensing in Robots Developing robots that can sense and respond to human emotions in group settings. 4
Adaptive Interaction Frameworks Creating frameworks for adaptive interactions between robots and humans in multi-person settings. 4
Evaluation Methods for Personalization Innovating evaluation methods to assess the effectiveness of personalized robot interactions over time. 3