In recent years, AI and robotic systems have begun to transition from controlled laboratory settings into everyday contexts such as education, healthcare and assistive care. These technologies show potential for enabling adaptive learning, personalized support and social interaction, reshaping how individuals engage with digital systems. Socially Assistive Robots (SARs), in particular, have been explored in therapeutic and educational settings, suggesting positive effects on engagement, communication and socio-emotional development, especially among vulnerable populations such as children with autism. While there is a growing body of work in this direction, the practical deployment of SARs and AI in real-world settings remains limited and has not reached widespread adoption.
This Research Topic aims to explore the multifaceted relationship between human users and AI-driven assistive agents. We seek to understand how these technologies influence cognitive development, emotional well-being and social dynamics across diverse populations, from classroom settings to therapeutic interventions and the care of older populations. A key objective is to examine the socio-psychological impact of assistive AI, particularly its role in fostering social inclusion, reducing barriers and supporting equitable participation in education and society. The topic also addresses how human-computer interaction (HCI) and human-robot interaction (HRI) influence user trust, engagement and accessibility, emphasizing user-centered and inclusive design. Additionally, this Research Topic investigates the integration of AI and assistive robotics in learning environments, including their effects on teaching practices, personalized learning and collaboration. It also considers challenges such as equal access and over-reliance on technology. Finally, it explores factors affecting technology adoption, including user attitudes, usability and institutional readiness, with the goal of informing the responsible and effective deployment of assistive intelligent systems.
We welcome submissions that bridge the gap between theory and practice, including original research, systematic reviews, and case studies that explore the social, psychological and educational implications of assistive robotics. We particularly encourage contributions that address, although not exclusively: - Social & Psychological Dynamics: Human-robot attachment, trust in AI agents and the impact of robotics on social isolation or inclusion. - Educational Innovation: The role of AI tutors and assistive robots in special education, language acquisition and STEM learning. - Ethical and Theoretical Frameworks: New models for understanding the agency of robots in human-centric environments. - Practical Applications: Field studies on the deployment of assistive technologies in schools, hospitals, and homes. Through the integration of insights from technologists, psychologists and educators, this collection intends to provide a holistic view of how we can design and implement assistive AI that truly enhances human potential.
Article types and fees
This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:
Brief Research Report
Data Report
Editorial
FAIR² Data
General Commentary
Hypothesis and Theory
Methods
Mini Review
Opinion
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Article types
This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
