Feasibility of Using the Robot Sphero to Promote Perceptual- Motor Exploration in Infants

Infant-robot interaction has been increasingly gaining attention, yet, there are limited studies on the development of robot-assisted environments that promote perceptual-motor development in infants. This paper assesses the feasibility of operating a spherical mobile robot, Sphero, to engage infants in perceptual-motor exploration of an open area. Two case scenarios were considered. In the first case, Sphero was the only robot providing stimuli in the environment. In the second case, two additional robots provided stimuli along with Sphero. Pilot data from two infants were analyzed to extract information on their visual attention to and physical interaction with Sphero, as well as their motor actions. Overall, infants (i) expressed a preference to Sphero regardless of stimulation levels, and (ii) moved out of stationary postures in an effort to chase and approach Sphero. These preliminary findings provide support for the future implementation of Sphero in robot-assisted learning environments to promote perceptual-motor development in infants.

I. Introduction

Over the recent years, there has been an increasing interest in social and physical infant-robot interaction, for the learning opportunities robots may offer if introduced in the early stages of human development [1]–[14]. Robots assessed for use in infant motor interventions, in particular, include humanoid robots to encourage kicking movements in infants while sitting [5], robotic overhead mobile systems to promote spontaneous movements in infants in supine position [9], ride-on robots utilized as body transport devices by infants to increase their open-area mobility [6], [11], [12], and small mobile and humanoid robots used in combination with other technology, such as body transport devices and harness systems, to con-currently ease biomechanical constraints and engage infants in chasing games [10], [15]. The robot operation protocols across these studies vary, posing interesting questions regarding the most efficient utilization of robots in their interaction with infants and emphasizing the need for further examination.