Assistive Robots Can Boost Inclusive Workforce, Study Finds

A study by Professor Choi Sungwoo of CUHK Business School and Sara Kim of the University of Hong Kong examines consumer perceptions of employees with disabilities using robotic technologies in hospitality and tourism. The research, titled "Consumer perception of employees with disabilities using robots," involved experiments with participants from Prolific and a public university. Findings show consumers prefer in-person interactions with employees using wearable robots or traditional aids like wheelchairs over telepresence robots, which are perceived as lacking warmth. Telepresence robots are recommended for behind-the-scenes roles. The study suggests companies can confidently hire individuals with disabilities for frontline roles using assistive technologies, promoting diversity and enhancing consumer experience. Choi plans future research on how robotic technologies affect job performance and identity perceptions.