A series of QUT research studies have shed light on the importance of involving individuals with intellectual disabilities in the development of assistive technologies.
With significant projected market growth across the next decade, more and more humanoid robots are in development, highlighting the importance and timeliness of inclusive research.
These studies, which focus on the co-design of social robots, have led to promising new insights into how inclusive design can enhance accessibility and social engagement for this often-marginalized group.
From research participant to co-researcher: Chloe’s story
Chloe Haidenhofer, a woman with intellectual disability, transitioned from research participant to lead author of the study, “From research participant to co-researcher: Chloe’s story on co-designing inclusive technologies with people with intellectual disability,” which was published in The 26th International ACM SIGACCESS Conference on Computers and Accessibility.
Two QUT researchers, Associate Professor Laurianne Sitbon and Dr. Jessica Korte, both from the QUT School of Computer Science, are co-authors on the paper.
The experience report offers the perspective of the first author Chloe, who also works at the Endeavour Foundation, on participation in technology co-design and her views of how technology, particularly social robots, can be designed for everyone’s benefit.
“The study demonstrated Chloe’s ability and insights into technology design—she had a different way of looking at how the role of an assistive robot can go beyond functional support, towards social aid as well,” Professor Sitbon said.
“Chloe surprised us with analytical insights about other participants, contextualizing their input, making suggestions that could benefit them, and helping them express their preferences in their own way.”
Chloe recorded the findings through first-person experiences and interviews, exploring her peers’ social robot interactions with the support of humanoid robot, Pepper.
“Robots aren’t just fun, they’re super progressive and can be used so diversely these days,” Chloe said.
“I’ve seen first-hand at Endeavour Foundation’s Learning and Lifestyle hubs how Pepper can help my friends come out of their shell and feel more confident to talk to other people or do other activities.
“Pepper does that by communicating through an iPad, either visually or verbally, and will help that person say or do whatever they want in that moment, without the need of seeking the assistance of others if they chose.”
Social robots in museums: Enhancing engagement and accessibility
Another area of focus is the use of social robots in museum settings.
A study, presented at the DSAI conference and co-authored by QUT Ph.D. candidate Alicia Mitchell, from the QUT Center for Robotics, alongside Professor Sitbon and researchers from Università della Svizzera italiana, investigates the potential of social robots to enhance the engagement and participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in museum settings. The paper is available on ResearchGate.
Museums, while playing a vital role in promoting cultural and educational experiences, can present significant barriers for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Social robots are emerging as a promising solution, offering personalized interactions that cater to the specific needs of visitors.
“User studies from the research showed that social robots improved engagement, enhanced social interactions and increased overall satisfaction among individuals with intellectual disabilities,” Professor Sitbon said.
“The findings underscore the potential of technology to bridge gaps in cultural and educational accessibility.”
More information:
Choe Haidenhofer et al, From research participant to co-researcher: Chloe’s story on co-designing inclusive technologies with people with intellectual disability, The 26th International ACM SIGACCESS Conference on Computers and Accessibility (2024). DOI: 10.1145/3663548.3688541
Paper: Social Robots in Museums: Enhancing Engagement and Accessibility for People with Intellectual Disabilities
Queensland University of Technology
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Co-design empowers inclusive tech for individuals with intellectual disabilities (2025, March 13)
retrieved 13 March 2025
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