Learning together: ASIMO developing an interactive learning partnership with children

Abstract

Humanoid robots consist of biologically inspired features, human-like appearance, and intelligent behavior that naturally elicit social responses. Complex interactions are now possible, where children interact and learn from robots. A pilot study attempted to determine which features in robots led to changes in learning and behavior. Three common learning styles, lecture, cooperative, and self-directed, were implemented into ASIMO to see if children can learn from robots. General features such as monotone robot-like voice and human-like voice were compared. Thirty-seven children between the ages 4-to 10- years participated in the study. Each child engaged in a table-setting task with ASIMO that exhibited different learning styles and general features. Children answered questions in relation to a table-setting task with a learning measure. Promissory evidence shows that learning styles and general features matter especially for younger children.