Developmental Robotics

This module aims at development of an in-depth discussion and understanding of the field of developmental cognitive robotics. This is the field of cognitive and intelligent robotics that takes direct inspiration from child psychology theories and findings to design the acquisition of sensorimotor and cognitive skills in robots. The module will discuss the principles of developmental robotics and will review the application of robotics models and techniques in areas ranging from intrinsic motivation to motor and perceptual learning, social interaction, language leaning and abstract knowledge. The module will also explicitly discuss the main theories and findings from developmental psychology and neuroscience which have directly inspired the developmental robotics models. The module will also introduce students to the main concepts in robotics technology and the main robot platforms and simulators used for in developmental robotics. The module is suitable both for robotics and computer science students, as well as cognitive scientists and psychologists interested in computational models of cognition and behavior. It is also an option in the final year of a BSc/MSc degree in robotics, computer science, as well as for degree courses in psychology, anthropology, cognitive sciences. Part of the course have been realized with prof. Matthew Schlesinger.