Multilingual Online Learning Portal and Transcultural Robot Learning Assistant

Training of Socio-Emotional And Practical Life Skills of Children with Autism-Spectrum-Disorder in Migration Context

A Public Funded Project

Background

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often demonstrate a strong interest in technological tools and tend to respond more positively to interactions with computers or tablets than with other humans. Consequently, technology has gained increasing importance in ASD treatment.

It offers the potential to develop flexible and effective therapeutic approaches that are affordable, user-friendly, and accessible to a wide range of individuals. By leveraging technology, treatment can be better tailored to the unique needs of those with ASD, improving engagement and outcomes.

Impression of one potential social robot to be used in the project - QTrobot by LuxAI

About the Project

The project aims to develop innovative, multilingual technological tools designed to support the developmental needs of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) from diverse cultural backgrounds. Central to this initiative is the creation of an online platform offering multilingual information and educational resources tailored to benefit children, their parents, and therapists alike.

A key component of the project is the development of a robotic learning assistant equipped with integrated state-detection capabilities. This assistant is designed to identify distracting emotions or mental states during learning sessions, enabling adaptive responses that enhance engagement and learning effectiveness.

Social Robots QT and NAO interacting with a child

Scope of Work

The project begins with a comprehensive requirements analysis for both the online platform and the robotic learning assistant. This phase is based on extensive interviews with parents and therapists of children with ASD to capture user needs and expectations.

Following this, the development of a learning portal and targeted exercises will focus on enhancing socio-emotional skills and practical life competencies.

A significant aspect of the platform’s development includes the conceptualization of deep learning prediction models designed to infer mental and emotional states within learning contexts. These models will serve as indicators of children’s attention levels and distraction during learning sessions, enabling adaptive support.

Finally, to ensure the overall success of the project, IXP is responsible for conducting user evaluations that assess both the effectiveness and acceptance of the developed technological tools.