A social robot connected with chatGPT to improve cognitive functioning in ASD subjects

Francesca Bertacchini; Francesco Demarco; Carmelo Scuro; Pietro Pantano; Eleonora Bilotta

doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1232177

A social robot connected with chatGPT to improve cognitive functioning in ASD subjects

Front Psychol. 2023 Oct 5:14:1232177. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1232177. eCollection 2023.

Authors

Francesca Bertacchini^{1

2}, Francesco Demarco^{2

3}, Carmelo Scuro^{2

3}, Pietro Pantano^{2

3}, Eleonora Bilotta^{2

3}

Affiliations

¹ Department of Mechanical, Energy and Management Engineering, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy.
² Laboratory of Cognitive Psychology and Mathematical Modelling, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy.
³ Department of Physics, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy.

Abstract

Neurodevelopmental Disorders (NDDs) represent a significant healthcare and economic burden for families and society. Technology, including AI and digital technologies, offers potential solutions for the assessment, monitoring, and treatment of NDDs. However, further research is needed to determine the effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability of these technologies in NDDs, and to address the challenges associated with their implementation. In this work, we present the application of social robotics using a Pepper robot connected to the OpenAI system (Chat-GPT) for real-time dialogue initiation with the robot. After describing the general architecture of the system, we present two possible simulated interaction scenarios of a subject with Autism Spectrum Disorder in two different situations. Limitations and future implementations are also provided to provide an overview of the potential developments of interconnected systems that could greatly contribute to technological advancements for Neurodevelopmental Disorders (NDD).

Keywords: Autism Spectrum Disorders; educational scenarios; facial emotions recognition; neurodevelopmental disorders; physical disabilities; social robotics.

Grants and funding

This work was granted by Operational Health Plan trajectory 4 (POS4) funds assigned to the University of Calabria, Cal.Hub.Ria, OS7 AT1, scientific coordinator EB.