Regular biography
Melisa Orta Martinez is an Assistant Professor in the Robotics Institute at Carnegie Mellon University. She leads the Social Haptics Robotics and Education (SHRED) Laboratory, where her research combines robotics, haptics, human-computer interaction, and education. Her focus includes developing low-cost, open-source robotic technology for educational applications and studying the effects of this technology on learning. She also investigates the sense of touch and develops novel mechanisms for human-machine interaction. For more information, visit her website at https://www.meche.engineering.cmu.edu/directory/bios/orta-martinez-melisa.html or contact her via email at mortamar@andrew.cmu.edu.
Scholar-generated biography
Melisa Orta Martinez is an Assistant Professor in the Robotics Institute at Carnegie Mellon University, specializing in Haptics, Robotics, Human Computer Interaction, and Education. Her research focuses on developing open-source haptic devices for educational applications, such as Hapkit and SPEERLoom, which enable hands-on learning experiences. She explores how haptic technologies can support learning through tactile feedback, emphasizing the design of interactive tools for educators and students. Her work also investigates interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of haptics in teaching, particularly for visually impaired students. Martinez's research bridges robotics and education, aiming to enhance accessibility and engagement through innovative haptic interfaces.