Cristina Getson

I am a PhD Candidate in the department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at the University of Toronto. I explore how people interact with social robots, and seek to make technology understandable, useful, and accessible across all levels of ability.

Specifically, my research focuses on how the well-being of vulnerable populations, such as older adults and those with cognitive impairments, can be improved through human-robot interactions (HRI).

I play at the intersection of engineering, psychology, and design, and by taking personal, social, and ethical considerations into account, I design socially assistive robots to provide long-term benefits to both those who provide care and those in need of care.

As a graduate fellow at the Schwartz Reisman Institute for Technology and Society, I work across interdisciplinary teams to explore the ethical and practical implications of trusting embodied AI systems across various demographics.

 

Prior to pursuing my PhD, I worked in the educational technology sector, where I was involved in the creation of innovative digital applications and some of the first mobile apps in early language learning and in mathematics. This experience gave me insight into how to develop and introduce new technology into a work environment, assess user acceptance, and train new users of varying abilities on how to use emerging technology.

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I am also an abstract artist, and have exhibited my work at local galleries and international art fairs.
You can view my artwork here.