Classifying Emotional Responses of Children with Autism towards Robot Movement: A Proposed Framework Based on a Preliminary Case Study

Fatin Nadhirah Zabani; Nor Afirdaus Zainal Abidin

Authors

Fatin Nadhirah Zabani Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Melaka, Kampus Jasin, Malaysia
Nor Afirdaus Zainal Abidin Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Melaka, Kampus Jasin, Malaysia

Keywords:

Autism, robot movement, emotion classification, Kansei engineering, KJ Method, human robot interaction

Abstract

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) face unique challenges in recognizing, processing, and expressing emotions. Recent technological interventions using robots provide promising avenues to support these individuals. By integrating the Kansei Engineering approach and the KJ Method, this study proposes a refined framework for classifying emotional responses elicited by various robot movement patterns such as circular, forward, forward left, forward right, reverse left, and reverse right based on previous preliminary case study. These theoretical underpinnings, describe methodological approaches, and discuss the implications for designing adaptive robot systems that enhance social communication and educational outcomes for children with ASD. While based on preliminary case study, the proposed framework provides valuable insights into interpreting emotional responses in children with ASD and can act as useful reference for incorporating robots into their daily routines.