Perspectives on the use of social robotics in occupational therapy interventions.

Lebada, Sarah and Mercado, Lyneth and Patterson, Erin and Yusi, Sara (2023) Perspectives on the use of social robotics in occupational therapy interventions. Masters thesis, Stanbridge University.

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Abstract

Currently, the use of a social robot has been identified as a feasible aid to assist with managing and improving autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms. However, there are significant gaps that are necessary to address in order to define its true applicability in its future use in occupational therapy as well as incorporating the subjective viewpoints from parents and occupational therapy practitioners (OTP). It is important to understand the viewpoints from the key stakeholders, such as the OTPs and parents, because they have the most knowledge on their client’s or child’s interest and abilities and can provide applicable insight as to how effective a social robot can be. Potentially, they can contribute to what skills a social robot can provide; what challenges may arise when implementing an intervention or activity with a social robot; and what benefits, such as improvement in motor skills or creativity, can a social robot contribute to. In this study, we aim to examine the OTPs' and parents’ perspectives on the effectiveness of social robotics in therapy sessions. Through a mixed method study, we surveyed 5 OTPs and 1 parent of a child with ASD and found that there was an overall positive view on the use of QTrobot from both groups. However, there was also a clear hesitancy on the use of QTrobot for children with ASD due to participants having concerns in maintaining attention and engagement and in lacking a human touch. With this study, we hope to add a layer of understanding on the acceptance of the use of social robotics in ASD interventions by parents and OTPs to further establish and guide effective collaboration between the two.

Item Type:	Thesis (Masters)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	MSOTRS001.09
Subjects:	R Medicine > RM Therapeutics. Pharmacology
Depositing User:	Kareena Yashko
Date Deposited:	23 Jul 2024 17:38
Last Modified:	23 Jul 2024 17:38
URI:	http://repository.stanbridge.edu/id/eprint/161

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