Robert C. Pennington
University of North Carolina at Charlotte, University of Louisville
Papers
5
Total Citations
130
H-Index
3
About
Robert C. Pennington is a leading researcher in the use of innovative technology to support individuals with disabilities, particularly autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disabilities. His work focuses on developing and evaluating robot-assisted and technology-based instructional systems to teach critical communication, social, and academic skills. Pennington’s major contributions include demonstrating the effectiveness of small-group technology-assisted instruction, where virtual teachers and robot peers facilitate learning. His 2018 study on this approach, cited 70 times, showed significant gains in sight word acquisition for young adults with ASD. He also pioneered the use of robots to teach functional writing, such as composing personal narratives in text messages, a skill vital for social connection. In a 2014 study (35 citations), his multi-component package—combining a robot, simultaneous prompting, and self-graphing—successfully taught students with intellectual disabilities to write greetings and narratives. Pennington’s work is notable for its focus on underserved populations and its practical, replicable interventions. His research consistently demonstrates that technology can be a powerful, engaging tool for fostering independence and communication in learners with complex needs.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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