Erica Panelli

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About

Erica Panelli is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of developmental robotics, human-robot interaction, and playful learning. Her work centers on the transformative potential of play as a mechanism for skill acquisition, arguing that autonomous robots can serve as dynamic partners in human development rather than passive tools. In her seminal paper, "Play robots to develop competences" (2025), Panelli establishes a foundational framework demonstrating how robots' capacity for autonomous, adaptive interaction enables them to foster social, cognitive, and motor competencies in users across age groups. This work has garnered early recognition, with 1 citation already signaling its growing influence. Panelli’s key contribution lies in reframing robotic play as a scaffolded learning process, where robots adjust their behavior to challenge and support human partners—a paradigm shift from traditional toy-based education. Her research bridges robotics, psychology, and education, offering practical pathways for designing robots that nurture creativity and problem-solving. By positioning play as a serious developmental tool, Panelli is shaping how future generations will learn alongside machines, making her a vital voice in the emerging field of socially assistive robotics.