Human-robot interaction as a tool to evaluate and quantify motor imitation behavior in children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Nicoleta Bugnariu, Carolyn Young, Katelyn Rockenbach, Rita M. Patterson, Carolyn Garver, Isura Ranatunga, Monica Beltran, Nahum Torres-Arenas, Dan Popa

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

13 Scopus citations

Abstract

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) have difficulties engaging in imitation behavior. Available clinical tests that evaluate imitation rely on subjective observation and categorical 'yes' or 'no' data. We describe the development of a method to quantify imitation using a robot, kinematic data and a Dynamic Time Warping algorithm. A realistic-looking robot performed movements such as 'waving hello/goodbye', 'good job fist bump' and encouraged children with ASD and controls to imitate it. Preliminary results show that children with ASD interact positively with the robot and the DTW similarity measure may serve as both a meaningful and objective tool for evaluating the quality of imitation behavior.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2013 International Conference on Virtual Rehabilitation, ICVR 2013
PublisherIEEE Computer Society
Pages57-62
Number of pages6
ISBN (Print)9781479907748
DOIs
StatePublished - 2013
Event2013 10th International Conference on Virtual Rehabilitation, ICVR 2013 - Philadelphia, PA, United States
Duration: 26 Aug 201329 Aug 2013

Publication series

Name2013 International Conference on Virtual Rehabilitation, ICVR 2013

Other

Other2013 10th International Conference on Virtual Rehabilitation, ICVR 2013
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityPhiladelphia, PA
Period26/08/1329/08/13

Keywords

  • Autism
  • Imitation behavior
  • Kinematics
  • Robotics

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Human-robot interaction as a tool to evaluate and quantify motor imitation behavior in children with Autism Spectrum Disorders'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this