"Enriching HRI Research with Qualitative Methods"

Virtual Workshop, International Conference for Social Robotics 2020.
16-17th November 2020

As robotic systems become more complex and move into real-world settings, it is increasingly recognised that qualitative approaches to HRI research are important for developing effective robots and understanding their real world impact. This workshop aims to bring together scholars with experience in applying qualitative methods, and those who would like to learn more about how HRI can be enriched by adopting qualitative approaches. We invite participants of all levels and backgrounds, from industry and academia. No prior knowledge or use of qualitative approaches is required.

For all participants, the workshop offers an introduction to qualitative methods relevant to HRI, and an overview of methods currently applied by HRI scholars, including mixed-methods approaches.

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Topics to be covered:

• An Introduction to qualitative approaches

• Qualitative methods in HRI

• Practical tips for conducting qualitative research

• The benefits of adopting qualitative approaches 

• Perceived barriers to implementing qualitative approaches in HRI

• Mixed-methods approaches to HRI research

• Translating qualitative into quantitative 

• Applying best practices and ensuring scientific rigour in qualitative approaches

• Defending and publishing qualitative approaches and findings

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The workshop will take place online, via the Zoom video conferencing platform, and will include short talks from expert speakers, and the opportunity to ask questions and get feedback from the group. Questions could be about qualitative approaches broadly, or specific struggles you are experiencing in your own work. Such questions can be submitted prior to the workshop, or during the workshop.