Marie Wilkey
Papers
2
Total Citations
18
H-Index
2
About
Dr. Marie Wilkey is a leading researcher at the intersection of child development, human-robot interaction, and assistive technology. Her work focuses on how socially assistive robots can be integrated into naturalistic play environments to support children’s physical, cognitive, and social growth. In her most cited study (2021, 15 citations), Wilkey conducted a within-subjects pilot investigation into how a mobile socially assistive robot influences children’s physical activity, social play behaviors, and toy-use patterns during free play. Her findings reveal that the robot’s presence can meaningfully shape how children engage with their environment—promoting more active, social, and varied play compared to traditional toys alone. This work is foundational for designing technology that not only entertains but actively scaffolds developmental outcomes. A related study (2021, 3 citations) further explores these dynamics, reinforcing the robot’s potential as a tool for inclusive, engaging intervention. Wilkey’s contributions are especially valuable for researchers and practitioners in developmental robotics, pediatric rehabilitation, and early childhood education, offering evidence that socially assistive robots can serve as catalysts for healthier, more interactive play.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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