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a. Prototype

Version 7.2 by Mark Neerincx on 2024/03/18 17:04

Our objective is to assess the effectiveness of the Nao robot in aiding student volunteers, simulating individuals with early-stage dementia, to retrieve fabricated memories that we have created. This is aimed at mimicking the memory retrieval challenges faced by individuals with dementia.

Participants:

  • Test Group: Students acting as individuals with early-stage dementia using the Nao robot for memory retrieval.
  • Control Group: Students acting as individuals with early-stage dementia retrieving memories based solely on text prompts, without the assistance of the Nao robot.

Materials:

  • Nao robot for memory retrieval.
  • Set of standardized fabricated memories designed by us to simulate lost memories typical in early-stage dementia.
  • Memory quizzes based on the fabricated memories for evaluating retrieval success.
  • Writing materials for participants to document their answers.

Phase 1: Preparation

  1. Recruitment and Consent: Recruit a diverse group of student volunteers, ensuring informed consent for participation.
  2. Training: Brief participants on their roles and the concept of simulated memory loss without revealing specific details of the fabricated memories.
  3. Nao Robot Setup: Confirm that Nao is fully operational and our team is equipped to facilitate the interactions.

Phase 2: Baseline Assessment (Optional)

  1. Pre-test: Optionally, assess the students’ ability to recall general information unrelated to the fabricated memories to establish a baseline.
  2. Documentation: Record responses to analyze as a baseline for later comparison.

Phase 3: Memory Retrieval Test

  1. Introduction: Introduce participants in the test group to the Nao robot, explaining its purpose, and provide the control group with their first text-based memory prompt.
  2. Simulation: Conduct sessions where the test group interacts with Nao aiming to recall a set of fabricated memories. 
  3. Analog control group simulation: Conduct sessions with an analog encyclopedia with equally complex information on relatives. 
  4. Memory Quiz: Following each session, provide a written quiz to both groups based on the memories they were asked to retrieve.
  5. Documentation: Collect the completed quizzes, which will serve as the primary documentation of memory retrieval.

Phase 4: Evaluation

  1. Scoring: Grade the memory quizzes from both groups to evaluate the quantity and accuracy of retrieved memories.
  2. Analysis: Compare the effectiveness of memory retrieval between the Nao-assisted group and the text-prompt group.
  3. Participant Feedback: Gather feedback from all participants regarding their experience with the memory retrieval process.
  4. Observer Notes: Collect observations from staff regarding the interaction between participants and the Nao robot or text prompts.

Phase 5: Feedback and Improvement

  1. Participant Reflections: Review participant feedback for insights into the memory retrieval process and suggestions for improvement.
  2. Staff and Observer Insights: Analyze observations from staff and observers for additional perspectives on the effectiveness and emotional impact of the interactions.
  3. Improvement Strategies: Based on the feedback and results, develop a plan to enhance the memory retrieval capabilities of the Nao robot and the overall test design.

Documentation and Reporting

Ensure systematic recording of quiz responses, participant feedback, and observational data. We will compile these findings into a comprehensive report detailing the evaluation process, outcomes, and recommendations for future enhancements.

Ethical Considerations

We commit to the highest ethical standards, respecting the sensitive nature of simulating dementia conditions, and ensuring the well-being and dignity of all participants throughout the study.

This revised plan solidifies our commitment to exploring and enhancing the Nao robot's potential in supporting memory retrieval, closely simulating the experiences of individuals with early-stage dementia.