Multi-agent platform for development of educational games for children with autism

Abstract

Abstract-Multi-agent system of autonomous interactive blocks that can display its active state through color and light intensity has been developed. Depending on the individual rules, these autonomous blocks could express emergent behaviors which are a basis for various educational games. The multi-agent system is used for developing games for behavioral training of autistic children. This paper features the functional and electronic design of the individual blocks and transformation of the multi-agent system to a platform that allows multiple games to be designed through easy reprogramming of the blocks. Three game concepts that show the type of games that can easily be implemented and reprogrammed are described. The impact of this platform is shortly mentioned in the discussion. The initial tests of using the platform for various educational games are very positive. However, the results of user tests go beyond the scope of this paper and are not discussed in the text that follows.

Engaging Autistic Children in Imitation and Turn-Taking Games with Multiagent System of Interactive Lighting Blocks

“…We use multiagent system of i-blocks [2,3,4], which interact when positioned in each other's vicinity (Figure 1). They emit colored light and depending on the algorithm that is loaded on each block at this moment, express different set of local interaction behaviors that cause emergent collective behaviors.…”

“…Examples of different behavioral possibilities of the blocks in the framework of different game scenarios are described in [2,3,4]. In [2] the technical features of the platform are described.…”

“…In [2] the technical features of the platform are described. The blocks can interact by detecting their neighbors through the built-in sensors, and show behavior in response to their sensory stimulation.…”

“…We use a multiagent platform of interactive blocks (i-blocks) that express behavior in accordance with the way the blocks are used [2], 3, [3] [4]. The platform has a resemblance with tangible interaction platform, because of its appearance, and with a multiagent system of robots, since it expresses behavior through changing the lighting pattern of the blocks in emergent manner [4].…”

Implementation of Vision-based Object Tracking Algorithms for Motor Skill Assessments

“…For example, AudioBlocks and Block Jam features an augmented sound feedback mechanism to enable users to design musical sequences by manipulating the tangible objects with visual and sound feedback [24], [25]. Multi-agent autonomous interactive blocks and games were developed specifically for behavioral training of children with an autism spectrum disorder [26].…”