Designing Robots That Get You - The Rise of Emotional Intelligence in Human-Robot Interaction

Podcast Transcript

HOST: Welcome to today's episode, where we're going to talk about the exciting world of human-robot interaction. I'm your host, and joining me today is Dr. Rachel Kim, the lead instructor for our Undergraduate Certificate in Designing Human-Robot Interaction with Emotional Intelligence. Dr. Kim, thanks for being here! GUEST: Thank you for having me. I'm excited to share with your listeners the amazing opportunities that this certificate program has to offer. HOST: So, let's dive right in. What makes this program so unique, and what can students expect to gain from it? GUEST: Our program stands out because it combines theoretical foundations with hands-on projects and real-world applications. Students will learn the latest technologies and methodologies for designing human-robot interactions that are intuitive, empathetic, and emotionally intelligent. They'll work on collaborative projects, receive feedback from industry experts, and develop a portfolio that showcases their skills to potential employers. HOST: That sounds incredible. And I know that one of the biggest questions on people's minds is, "What kind of career opportunities are available in this field?" Can you tell us a bit more about that? GUEST: Absolutely. With this certificate, students will be equipped to pursue exciting career opportunities in robotics, AI, and human-computer interaction. They'll be in high demand across industries, from healthcare and education to manufacturing and entertainment. Some potential career paths include human-robot interaction designer, UX researcher, and AI engineer. HOST: Wow, those are some really cool career paths. And I know that our listeners are curious about the practical applications of this field. Can you give us some examples of how human-robot interaction is being used in real-world scenarios? GUEST: Sure. For example, in healthcare, robots are being used to assist with patient care, provide companionship, and even help with rehabilitation. In education, robots are being used to create interactive learning experiences and help students with disabilities. And in manufacturing, robots are being used to improve efficiency and safety. HOST: Those are some amazing examples. And I know that our listeners are curious about the skills and knowledge that they'll gain from this program. Can you walk us through some of the key topics that you'll be covering? GUEST: We'll be covering topics such as human-centered design, emotional intelligence, machine learning, and human-robot interaction design. Students will also learn about the latest technologies and tools, such as robotic platforms, sensors, and programming languages. HOST: That sounds like a comprehensive program. And finally, what advice would you give to our listeners who are considering enrolling in this program? GUEST: I would say that this program is perfect for anyone who is passionate about technology, design, and human behavior. If you're looking for a career that combines creativity, problem-solving, and innovation, then this program is for you. And don't be afraid to reach out to us with any questions or to learn