The boy-robot should bark! : Children's impressions of agent migration into diverse embodiments

Abstract

This paper presents results from a series of focused group discussions with a sample consisting of approximately 180 children during which views and opinions regarding agents migrating between different embodiments were elicited. The discussions attempted to ground the concept of a migrating agent in the children''s own experience of interacting with virtual characters in electronic toys and video games. The results suggest a complex interplay between expectations and appearance, and that disentangling the form of an agent may take from the underlying structures defining the agent's personality may be problematic for potential users.