At UCP of Central Florida, innovation and inclusion go hand in hand. In collaboration with the University of Central Florida, we are thrilled to introduce Project RAISE—an initiative aimed at improving the social skills of elementary students with disabilities through cutting-edge technology.
What is Project RAISE?
Project RAISE, short for Robotics and Artificial Intelligence to Improve Social Skills for Elementary Students, uses a unique combination of tools to foster communication, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving in students with disabilities. Central to this project is the use of Ray-Z, a virtual robot, and ZB, an AI-driven socially assistive robot (SAR) designed and patented by the talented team at the University of Central Florida.
How Does It Work?
The project’s implementation is divided into three phases, each designed to ensure skill-building and confidence in a supportive, distraction-free environment:
Phase 1: Coding and Communication Coaching Students are introduced to basic coding skills while building a meaningful relationship with ZB. This stage also emphasizes communication coaching, helping students establish foundational social skills.
Phase 2: Peer Collaboration Students take their new coding knowledge and work alongside peers, with ZB providing real-time support to encourage teamwork and collaboration.
Phase 3: Classroom Integration In the final phase, ZB delivers personalized support in a general education setting, ensuring students receive maximum assistance while navigating a typical classroom environment.
Outcomes for Students
Project RAISE provides a transformative experience, empowering students with disabilities in several impactful ways:
Improved Social Skills: Students enhance their peer interactions and communication abilities.
Emotional and Goal Management: Participants acquire knowledge and skills to manage emotions, achieve goals, and establish and maintain relationships.
Coding Proficiency: Students gain an understanding of basic coding concepts, laying the foundation for STEM success.
STEM Learning: Increased exposure to and learning in science, technology, engineering, and math fields.
Open Educational Resources (OER)
A key component of Project RAISE is the development of six open educational resources (OER) to ensure accessibility and scalability. These tools and materials, available at the conclusion of the project, will support educators, schools, and students in diverse ways. The OER areas include:
Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Learning to Code – A resource to help students develop coding skills.
Students with ASD Teaching a Peer-to-Code – A tool fostering collaborative coding learning experiences.
Socially Assistive Robot (SAR) Supporting Students with ASD in Math Class – Guidance on integrating SAR for math education.
Professional Development (PD) on Cooperative Learning in Math – Training materials for cooperative math instruction.
Paraprofessional and Teacher PD – Resources to equip educators and paraprofessionals with inclusive teaching strategies.
Measuring Social Interaction and Communication – Tools to evaluate and enhance social and communication skills in students.
These resources will be available as standalone tools or as part of a comprehensive toolkit for educators and schools.
Why It Matters
UCP of Central Florida is committed to empowering children with and without disabilities to reach their fullest potential. Project RAISE exemplifies this mission, blending technology and education to create meaningful learning experiences. The program not only fosters social skills but also equips students with STEM knowledge critical for future success.
Learn More
Visit ucpcfl.org/projectraise for additional details about Project RAISE, or contact Dr. Shaunn Smith at shaunn.smith@ucpcfl.org.
Together, we are shaping a brighter, more inclusive future—one student at a time.