Robotdjur och människor

Om serendipitet, Illusionen av robotars autonomi och behovet av vårdpersonalens kompetens

Abstract

The use of robotic animals in elderly care is becoming increasingly common, while their effects are mixed and dependent on personal experiences and technical characteristics. The aim of this article is to shed light on an overlooked influencing factor, namely the care workers’ ways of working. The article is based on 10 years of research experience. The report begins with a first (apparently unsuccessful) quantitative intervention study. Based on the idea of serendipity – unexpected events that bring new insights to life – the focus will then be directed towards a later qualitative study on the working methods of care workers. Analysis of their way of working with the robots results in the identification of three types of competences: a) bodily, b) social, and c) ethical. These competencies are necessary to transform the robotic animals from technical devices into caring tools.