​​IEEE/RSJ IROS 2025 Workshop

Enhancing Human Engagement in Social Assistive Robotics: Exploring Interaction, Cognitive Load, and Adaptive Support

Hangzhou, CHINA
October 2025

About

As Social Assistive Robotics (SAR) advances, enhancing human engagement remains a critical challenge. This workshop at IROS 2025 will explore interaction strategies, cognitive load management, and adaptive support mechanisms to improve user experience in SAR. By bridging robotics, human factors, and AI-driven adaptation, we aim to foster interdisciplinary discussions on how robots can dynamically adjust to user needs, fostering more intuitive and effective interactions.

Building on previous SAR events, this workshop introduces novel insights, including AI-enhanced tactile sensing for safer interaction, improved autonomy and safety in assistive robots, humanized conversational agents for medical applications, long-term engagement assessment in real-world settings, and interdisciplinary perspectives on adaptive robot behavior. By integrating robotics, AI, cognitive science, and human-computer interaction, we offer a holistic approach to improving SAR effectiveness across diverse contexts.

Aligned with IROS 2025’s theme of “human-robotics frontiers”, this workshop will feature expert keynotes, interactive panels, and presentations from contributing authors. Attendees will engage in discussions shaping the next generation of SAR, fostering collaboration between researchers, industry practitioners, and policymakers.