RONIN · RObot traiNing INdependence

RONIN aims to develop a training toolkit, embedded in a robot-assisted training setup, for supporting adolescents with developmental disabilities (DDs) in achieving independent adult life. DDs hinder access to formal education for about 4 million children in Europe, which, in consequence, compromises their independence later in life. This poses a huge challenge for the affected individuals, their families, and for society. One of the major issues that impedes achieving independence by individuals with disabilities is insufficient support, focused on training social and cognitive skills crucial for leading independent adult life. RONIN proposes a solution which uses the Embodied Learning approach (via “role-plays” with the robot) and targets skills necessary for attaining independent adult life: independence in (i) self-care; (ii) interaction with others; and (iii) facing stressful situations, such as exams or job interviews. RONIN’s training toolkit includes: the training protocol scripts and objects used in interaction, encoded robot behaviours, and graphical user interface (GUI) for the therapists. Involving a robot in the training has the advantage that users can benefit from a robot mediator which offers a non-intimidating, more predictable and reduced in complexity interaction with less social pressure, compared to interaction with another human. For the therapists, the robot removes the burden of repetitive and lengthy “role-plays”, allowing the therapists to focus on monitoring progress of the training. The work plan of RONIN consists in designing the training protocol scripts and objects, encoding the robot behaviours, developing the GUI, integrating all components in the setup, and testing the efficacy of the training protocols with clinical populations. Should the training prove efficacious, it will revolutionise the way support is offered to adolescents with DD, their families and therapists, and will open a pathway to exploitation.