In this very first episode of The Engagement Architect Podcast, host Chris Bennett talks with Dr. Sonia Tiwari, a children’s media researcher and designer exploring how fictional and AI-powered characters shape learning, creativity, and connection.Sonia shares insights from her research on animated chatbots, social robots, and intelligent tutors — and why context matters when designing AI characters for kids. We dive into her “dual empathy timeline,” the role of emotions in engagement, and what parents and educators should know about balancing the potential and risks of emerging technologies.Sonia has worked at the intersection of animation, learning sciences, and human-computer interaction, and is currently part of the prestigious Falling Walls Foundation “Female Science Talents Intensive Track" program.Join us as we explore how characters — both fictional and digital — can spark imagination, motivate learning, and create meaningful engagement.Music by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio.

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