In this episode of Practical Access, Lisa Dieker and Rebecca Hines discuss Project RAISE (Robots and Artificial Intelligence to Improve Social Skills for Elementary Students), a federally funded initiative aimed at integrating AI and robotics in educational settings. The project is a collaboration with UCP of Central Florida and led by computer science expert Charlie Hughes, among others.
Link to website:
https://www.ucf.edu/research/research-project/raise-robots-and-artificial-intelligence-to-improve-social-skills-for-elementary-students/
Key Points:
1. Purpose of Project RAISE: The project focuses on using robotics and AI to aid the development of social and communication skills in elementary students, particularly those with autism spectrum disorders. The initiative seeks to merge technology, engineering, science, and math skills with targeted social skills training.
2. Engagement with Technology and Peers: The project involves students learning to code robots through an interactive AI agent, fostering both technical and social skills. Students first work with the AI agent alone and then bring a friend to collaborate, promoting social interactions and peer teaching.
3. Use of Avatar in Classroom: An avatar named Zoobee guides students through activities and provides non-judgmental, consistent feedback, reinforcing positive behaviors. This AI component helps students practice communication in a safe, controlled environment.
4. Recording and Analyzing Student Interactions: The project involves recording and analyzing student interactions with the AI and peers to study social reciprocity in conversations. This data helps in understanding and improving social skills among participants.
5. Biometrics for Emotional Recognition: The project also experiments with biometrics, using devices to monitor physiological changes indicative of stress. This aspect aims to understand and respond to the emotional needs of students better.
6. Impact on Students with Autism: The hosts discuss the potential of such AI-driven projects to significantly aid students with autism by providing a safe space to interact, learn, and express emotions.
7. Future Directions and Accessibility: The project aims to make its resources available for broader use after completion. The hosts emphasize the importance of such initiatives in making education more inclusive and tailored to individual student needs.
Creating Inclusive Classrooms: Strategies, and Building Relationships
Unleashing Student Potential: Strategies from a Veteran Teacher including using AI
S11: E2 Beyond the Screen: Social Learning with VOISS in VR environments with Dr. Sean Smith
S11: E1 The Rise of EL and AI in Classroom Learning with Tiffanie Zaugg
S10 E7: Embracing Accessibility with Luis Perez
S10 E6: Inclusive Education for Diverse Needs (including visual needs) with Dr. Avien Henry
S10 E5: Using Technology Based-Solutions for Professional Development
S10 E3: A.I. in Education: Opportunities and Challenges
S10 E2: Harnessing A.I.
S10 E1: Embracing Change & Advancing Education through Technology
S9 E11: Teacher Preparation with Dr. Mary Little
Season 9 Bonus: Call Me MISTER
S9 E9: Reinvigorating Teacher Prep Programs with Dr. Eileen Glavey
S9 E8: Inspire of Central Florida
S9 E7: Supporting Doctoral Students
S9 E6: Supporting Students with Emotional Behavioral Disorder (EBD)
S9 E5: Let's talk about Nonverbal Communication
S9 E4: Post Pandemic Concerns
S9 E3: Co-Teaching Part 2: How to Make it Work
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
Regenerative Skills
The Meaningful Life with Andrew G. Marshall
The No-Frills Teacher Podcast
The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast
The Mel Robbins Podcast