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ABSTRACT AnthroTronix and its subsidiary AT KidSystems research and develop advanced human-computer interfaces for kids with disabilities. Two of our research projects involve interactive robots - for physical therapy and for teaching social-cognitive skills to kids with Autism. Based on on work with with therapists, educators, parents, and children with disabilities, and extensive surveying of technology, it is clear that few assistive technology devices, general use toys, or general educational products meet the following design requirements: Adaptable enough to target a wide variety of developmental, educational and clinical goals in a child-centered, holistic fashion; Appropriate for children as young as 3 years old; Include an element of fun; Can be modified to sustain the child’s interest over a long period of time; and Contain embedded assessment capabilities, to objectively evaluate the child’s progress. A holistic approach to addressing the therapeutic and educational needs of children with disabilities has been widely accepted and embraced, as reflected in the Individual Educational Plan (IEP) employed in school systems and a multi-disciplinary intervention approach in many clinics. We feel that there is a role for a new generation of therapeutic robots and would like to discuss the possibilities! SPEAKER BIO Dr. Corinna Lathan is founder and CEO of AnthroTronix, an engineering product development company. She is also CEO of a new AnthroTronix subsidiary, AT KidSystems, Inc, which was created to distribute alternative computer interfaces and educational software for children with disabilities. Corinna has received numerous awards including Maryland’s Top Innovator of the Year, MIT Technology Review magazine’s Top 100 World Innovators and the Women in Technology Leadership Award for Entrepreneurship. She is actively involved in educational outreach programs that empower women and minorities in science and technology and is the founder of Keys to Empowering Youth for junior high school girls. She received a PhD in Neuroscience and an MS in Aeronautics and Astronautics from MIT, and a BA in Biopsychology and Mathematics from Swarthmore College. Dr. Corinna Lathan Email: clathan@atinc.com URL: http://www.atinc.com/ |
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