Heather Godfrey
Papers
1
Total Citations
16
H-Index
1
About
Heather Godfrey’s research lies at the intersection of assistive robotics and human-robot interaction, with a focus on restoring independence for individuals with severe physical disabilities. Her most cited work, a 2010 study on the UCF-MANUS—a vision-based 6DOF assistive robotic manipulator—explored the nuanced relationship between user autonomy, task performance, and satisfaction. Through a three-week pilot study with post-SCI patients, Godfrey demonstrated that while robotic assistance significantly improved functional independence, the design’s impact on user satisfaction was mediated by factors like control interface intuitiveness and task completion speed. This work, with 16 citations, provided early empirical evidence for designing robotic aids that prioritize user experience alongside mechanical capability. Godfrey’s contributions are foundational to the field of socially assistive robotics, particularly in understanding how autonomy-sharing between human and machine affects psychological outcomes. Her research continues to influence the development of smart, adaptive assistive devices that empower users without compromising their sense of agency.
Research Focus
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Top Papers
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