Joel Schwartz

Papers

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About

Joel Schwartz is a design researcher whose work bridges human-computer interaction, socially assistive robotics, and emotional well-being. His key research areas include tangible interaction design, intimate-space technologies, and the development of non-traditional robotic systems for emotional regulation. Schwartz’s major contribution lies in his Research-through-Design approach, exemplified by his most-cited paper, “Design (Not) Lost in Translation: A Case Study of an Intimate-Space Socially Assistive ‘Robot’ for Emotion Regulation” (2022, 35 citations). This case study details the creation of a tangible device that functions as a socially assistive robot, designed to scaffold children’s emotional regulation. By focusing on intimate-space interactions, Schwartz challenges conventional robotics paradigms, emphasizing soft, unobtrusive forms that prioritize user comfort and agency. His work has been recognized for its methodological rigor and human-centered perspective, offering a blueprint for designing technologies that support vulnerable populations. With growing citation impact, Schwartz is shaping how researchers think about assistive technologies that are not merely functional but deeply empathetic, making his contributions vital for students and scholars interested in the intersection of design, psychology, and human-robot interaction.