Publicly funded research project
Funding program: Richtlinie über die Gewährung von Zuwendungen zur Förderung von Maßnahmen im Rahmen des Programms “Soziale Innovation”
Project runtime: 01/2026-12/2028
Project volume: € 696.490,97
Project coordinator: Bildungs- und Tagungszentrum Ostheide, Oxana Klein
Project lead (Ostfalia): Prof. Dr. Tobias Dörnbach
The project Soziale Roboter in der inklusiven Bildungsarbeit (SoRinBA) aims to relieve professionals in inclusive education while opening up new pathways toward greater independence and social participation for people with disabilities.
A social robot interacting with users using natural language trains future everyday assistants in typical real-life interaction scenarios – from shopping and resolving minor conflicts to supporting daily routines at home and during leisure activities. By simulating realistic communication situations, the system systematically strengthens confidence, social skills, and practical decision-making abilities.
Unlike conventional training formats, the robot enables individualized, on-demand practice sessions that are independent of staff availability or fixed schedules. The system adapts to each user’s learning pace, communication style, and support needs, providing personalized coaching that effectively reduces the workload of professionals.
