Robots being used as classroom buddies for children with autism

Robots are being used as classroom buddies for children with autism in a groundbreaking initiative that aims to improve social interaction and communication. Max and Ben, two knee-high humanoid robots that can dance to "Thriller", play games and emulate Thai Chi, are to be showcased by researchers at the University of Birmingham as part of the ESRC festival of Social Sciences. The Aldebaran robots, which have been trialled by pupils at Topcliffe Primary School in Castle Vale, Birmingham since March, are the latest in a range of innovative technologies that will be on display at the school tomorrow (Thurs 8th November). The event is about using technologies to help children with autism. Children, teachers and researchers will demonstrate the latest technologies and share their experiences of using them in the classroom. Karen Guldberg, from the University of Birmingham's School of Education, said: "We have been looking at how technology can support pupils with autism to communicate more effectively. "Pupils and teachers are experimenting with the robots and other technologies in a developmental way and they are showing significant benefits for the classroom.