Maha Alghamdi

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About

Dr. Maha Alghamdi is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of robotics and special education, with a primary focus on developing technology-driven interventions for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Her work systematically explores how humanoid robots, particularly the NAO robot, can serve as therapeutic and educational tools to enhance social and cognitive development. In her highly cited 2023 systematic review, *"Assessing the Potential of Robotics Technology for Enhancing Educational for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder"* (26 citations), Dr. Alghamdi synthesized the field’s challenges and opportunities, establishing a critical framework for future research. Building on this foundation, her 2024 study, *"Improving Imitation Skills in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Using the NAO Robot and a Human Action Recognition"* (11 citations), introduced an innovative, technology-mediated approach to teaching imitation—a core deficit in ASD. By combining robotics with human action recognition, she demonstrated measurable improvements in children’s engagement and skill acquisition. Dr. Alghamdi’s contributions are vital for advancing inclusive, evidence-based assistive technologies, bridging the gap between engineering and clinical practice. Her work continues to shape how researchers and educators leverage robotics to create more accessible, interactive learning environments for neurodiverse populations.