Abstract
This thesis explores the design and evaluation of robot personalities tailored for office environments, focusing on enhancing user acceptance and interaction quality. Conductedas part of the MARIE research project, the study integrates insights from psychology,
robotics and human-centered design to create two distinct robot personalities: an extroverted (P1) and an introverted (P2) character. These personalities were defined using
an adaptation of the Big Five Inventory 2 (BFI-2) framework, enabling a structured approach to personality design. A randomized within-subjects study with 14 participants
was conducted to evaluate these personalities and gain insights into user preferences
and perceptions.
The study employed a multi-modal methodology, combining quantitative tools like
the Godspeed Questionnaire and the BFI-2 with qualitative interviews to assess participants’ experiences. Results reveal a clear preference for the extroverted personality
(P1), which was perceived as livelier, more engaging and better suited for the office
scenario. While the introverted personality (P2) aligned more closely with expected
personality traits, its reserved nature was less favored. The findings underscore the importance of designing multi-modal interactions, including facial expressions, speech and
LED animations, to effectively convey robot personality and enhance user interaction.
| Date of Award | 2025 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English (American) |
| Supervisor | Werner Christian Kurschl (Supervisor) |