Maryam Roohbakhsh

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About

Maryam Roohbakhsh is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of human-robot interaction, special education, and music therapy. Her work investigates how social robots can serve as transformative tools for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), particularly in music education. Her most-cited study, "Social Robots and Teaching Music to Autistic Children: Myth or Reality?" (2016, 30 citations), challenges skepticism by demonstrating that carefully designed robotic interactions can engage autistic children in musical learning, fostering communication, emotional expression, and social skills. This seminal paper has shaped subsequent research on assistive robotics in therapeutic settings, highlighting the potential of technology to bridge gaps in traditional teaching methods. Roohbakhsh’s contributions extend beyond theoretical frameworks, offering practical insights for educators and therapists. Her work is notable for its interdisciplinary approach, merging robotics, pedagogy, and clinical psychology to create inclusive learning environments. With growing interest in robot-assisted therapy, her research continues to influence how we design empathetic, adaptive technologies for vulnerable populations, making her a key voice in the evolving dialogue on technology’s role in special education.