Human Robot Interaction, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The course is about physical robots used in applications with close interaction between robots and humans. The focus is on design
considerations, software development, and evaluation of such applications.

The course is divided into a theoretical part (Part 1: Theory, 4 hp) and a practical part (Part 2: Practice, 3.5 credits). The theoretical part deals with current issues, established practices, and methods used to design, construct, and evaluate systems of interacting robots and humans. The theoretical part also provides exercises in applying this knowledge. Examples of concepts that are typically included in this part is autonomy, user-centered design, embodiment, anthropomorphism, emotions, design patterns, proxemics, deictic gestures, and natural language processing.

The practical part runs in parallel with the theoretical one, and mainly consists of project work in groups. Theories, methods and techniques from the theoretical part are applied in order to design and develop software for robots that interact with humans. Practical work with critical evaluation of such robots are also included.

Expected learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• (FSR 1) discuss and compare advantages and disadvantages with robots within a number of current application areas,
• (FSR 2) describe how the interaction between robot and human is influenced by design aspects such as degree of autonomy, design of social perception, embodiment, and anthropomorphism,
• (FSR 3) describe relevant relations between the area of human-robot interaction, and other academic areas.

Skills and abilities
After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• (FSR 4) use systems of interacting robots and humans,
• (FSR 5) develop software for systems of interacting robots and humans,
• (FSR 6) evaluate systems of interacting robots and humans.

Judgement and approach
After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• (FSR 7) demonstrate an understanding of the need to consider technical, personal, safety related, ethical, and societal demands and requirements for work with, and evaluation of, own and others' research, design, and development work within the area human-robot interaction.

Required Knowledge

At least 90 ECTS, including 60 ECTS Computing Science, or 120 ECTS within a study programmet. At least 15 ECTS programming and 7.5 ECTS artificial intelligence. Proficiency in English equivalent to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Form of instruction

The course consists of lectures, work in smaller groups, student presentations, and project work in the computer lab and other environments. In addition to scheduled activities, the course also requires individual work with the material.

Examination modes

The examination of the theoretical part (FSR 1-3, 7) is done with a written exam in halls. The part is graded with one of the grades Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with Mark (4), or Pass with Distinction (5).

Examination of the practical part (FSR 4-7) is done by written and oral presentations of the conducted project work. The part is graded with one of the grades Fail (U) or Pass (G).

On the course as a whole, the grades given are Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with Mark (4), or Pass with Distinction (5). The grade on the course as a whole is determined by the grade on the theoretical part.

Adapted examination
The examiner can decide to deviate from the specified forms of examination. Individual adaptation of the examination shall be considered based on the needs of the student. The examination is adapted within the constraints of the expected learning outcomes. A student that needs adapted examination shall no later than 10 days before the examination request adaptation from the Department of Computing Science. The examiner makes a decision of adapted examination and the student is notified.
 

Other regulations

In an exam, this course may not be included, in whole or in part, simultaneously with another course of similar content. If in doubt, consult the student counselors at the Department of Computer Science and / or program director of the study program.

If the syllabus has expired or the course has been discontinued, a student who at some point registered for the course is guaranteed at least three examinations (including the regular examination) according to this syllabus for a maximum period of two years from the syllabus expiring or the course being discontinued.