Towards a Common Understanding and Vision for Theory-Grounded Human-Robot Interaction (THEORIA)

Glenda Hannibal, Nicholas Rabb, Theresa Law, Patrícia Alves-Oliveira

Abstract: While the accumulation of practical knowledge provided researchers with much insight into successful human-robot interaction (HRI), a broader discussion about the role of theoretical knowledge is still lacking. It is unfortunate because it is also important to explicitly consider theory and theorizing in HRI as crucial contributions when aspiring to develop this field of research into a mature science. With our proposed interactive half-day workshop, we aim to provide a vibrant setting for the participants to discuss the “what, why, and how” of theoretical knowledge in HRI, as they share and learn from each other's experiences and competence. In the long-term perspective, the outcome of this workshop will lay the foundation for a supportive research community that encourages researchers to reflect and collaborate further on theory-grounded HRI work.