How do humans interact with each other? How about with robots? In this project, we empirically examine (1) how the theories of intergroup behaviors in human psychology can be applied to human-robot interaction, and (2) whether behaviors observed in human-robot interaction transfer to human-human interaction or vice versa. We may also work on other mini projects along the way!
Students will conduct an experiment in which a human and a robot interact with each other. We use Pepper by Softbank Robotics (see pictures below or here for more information). The project takes an interdisciplinary perspective using theories from psychology and methods from computer science, communication studies, and other related fields. As such, students from different fields are encouraged to apply.
Students will be closely working with the supervisors and graduate students and be responsible for various aspects of the study such as theoretical and methodological discussions, recruting participants, conducting experiments, and coding data. Students must stay and work on campus for the duration of the PURE Project (or beyond) while taking turns to have their time off.
Required qualifications:
- able to stay and work on campus for the duration of the PURE Project
- open to new experiences and able to adapt to new and/or changing circumstances
- interest in social psychology, human-robot interaction, and cognitive science
- intellectual curiosity and the ability to learn new skills and knowledge independently
- highly comfortable in social interactions and can contribute to participant recruitment
- team player who is not afraid to ask for help, can take feedback, and is eager to help others
- moderate to advanced communication skills in English
Desirable but not required qualifications:
- research experience in psychological experiments
- programming skills in Python and/or other languages
- experience in digital designs and social media management
If you are interested in applying to this project, please first write to Drs. Junko Kanero (jkanero@sabanciuniv.edu) and Çiğdem Bağcı (cigdem.bagci@sabanciuniv.edu) in the same email, with the title "PURE Social Psychology x Human-Robot Interaction 2023", in addition to apply through the PURE system.
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