Overview: Robotics technology has the potential to be a game changer in healthcare: improving health and well- being for millions of people, supporting care givers, and aiding an overburdened clinical workforce. However, healthcare is a complex ecosystem, and it is crucial to consider this context from a multidisciplinary perspective when building new technology. This course brings together engineers, scientists, clinicians, and end-users to explore this exciting new field. This course will be project-based, interactive, and hands on, and will involve working with key stakeholders to design and prototype systems that address real-world problems. Students will explore current research in robotics, human-robot interaction, and human-centered health design, and gain experience using these perspectives to address important problems in unique ways.
Pre-Reqs: This course will involve design thinking, physical prototyping, and software development. Students with backgrounds in engineering should be comfortable with building and experimenting within their area of expertise. (e.g., CSE students should be experienced in software development, MAE students in rapid prototyping, etc.). Students with backgrounds in social science or clinical fields should be comfortable with user-centered design. All students should be comfortable reading scientific papers, and working with students and stakeholders from a diverse set of backgrounds.
Note 1: In this class, students will learn about human-centered health design methods, and apply them on projects in collaboration with community stakeholders, including: disabled people, clinicians, and care partners.
Note 2: It is 100% ok if you are new to accessibility / healthcare / human-centered design / CSE / robotics! Please do not let the title of the course prevent you from completing this form. My goal is to make this course be inclusive to students with a range of backgrounds from across the university.
Note 3: This class will not be covering surgical robotics. If that is your primary interest, please instead consider courses offered by Drs. Tania Morimoto (MAE), Michael Yip (ECE), or classes within the Department of Surgery.