Athanasios Drigas

• Researh Director at Net Media Lab Mind-Brain R&D IIT NCSR D
• Research Director at National Centre of Scientific Research "Demokritos"

This systematic review aims to investigate the ways in which assistive and developing technologies can help children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience less stress and neurophysiological distress. According to recent CDC data, the prevalence of ASD in the United States has climbed to 1 in 36 children. The symptoms of ASD...

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of children globally. Children with ADHD frequently struggle with impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention, which can impair their academic achievement. However, if given the right help, children with ADHD can thrive in the classroom and develo...

Extended technology Reality (XR), which includes Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR), is revolutionizing the education sector, radically changing the way students and professionals acquire knowledge and skills.

This study examines the impact of an integrated teaching approach, combining ChatGPT and traditional methods, on geometric understanding in third-grade students (ages 9-10). Grounded in Piaget’s and Van Hiele’s theories, the research involved 436 students from Attica, Greece, divided into an experimental group and a control group, 218 students each...

This paper aims to highlight non-invasive BCI-VR applied protocols as intervention paradigms on school-aged subjects with ASD. Computer-based interventions are considered appropriate for users with ASD as concentration on a screen reduces other stimuli from the environment that are likely to be distracting or disruptive. Since there are no social c...

Serious games (SGs) are primarily aimed at promoting learning, skills training, and rehabilitation. Artificial intelligence, immersive technologies, the meta-verse, and neurotechnologies promise the next revolution in gaming. Meta-skills are considered the "must-have" skills for thriving in the era of rapid change, complexity, and innovation. Meta-...

Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) frequently experience impairments in a range of abilities. Due to their poor attention and concentration, they find it challenging to stay focused when learning. They need help to retain the directions given by teachers and are very animated. Focus issues, hyperactivity, and attention pr...

This study explores the use of digital simulations in STEM education, addressing the gap in systematic reviews synthesizing recent advancements and their implications for teaching and learning by focusing on their impact on learning outcomes and student engagement across general and special education settings. The review includes 31 peer-reviewed e...

Background/Objectives: The evolution of digital technology enhances the broadening of a person's intellectual growth. Research points out that implementing innovative applications of the digital world improves human social, cognitive, and metacognitive behavior. Artificial intelligence chatbots are yet another innovative human-made construct. These...

Background: Autism spectrum disorder is a multifactorial phenomenon whose genetic, biological, environmental, and nutritional factors outline the heterogeneous phenotype of the disease. A limitation in social connections with others, stereotyped reactions, and specific interests and preferences characterize the behavioral manifestations of a person...

The present study investigated the involvement of working memory deficits in the difficulty presented by individuals with dyslexia or/and dyscalculia to understand Physics. For this reason, it dealt with the working memory deficits in these individuals and with the type of difficulties they face in learning Physics. The study concluded that the def...

The following review explores the use of mobile applications in mindfulness practices. Also, it examines the fundamental characteristics of mobile applications that might enhance their effectiveness. This study is the third and final phase of a project that aims to investigate the advantages of technology and mindfulness in kindergarten. In the fir...

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has a significant impact on a person's social, emotional, and communication functioning. According to research, individualized instruction can significantly improve these deficits. One of the most successful methods of achieving this outcome is by gaming platforms that provide serious games (SGs). This article is a sy...

Students with learning disabilities often experience a complex range of internal and external challenges that can significantly impact their overall well-being and development. Internally, these students may grapple with intense feelings of anxiety, depression, and physical complaints, which can lead to social withdrawal and diminished self-esteem....

Abstract: This review will explore the role of executive functions and the impact they have in facilitating the skills of vehicle operation. Executive functions are critical for the decision-making process, problem-solving, and multitasking. They are considered the primary factors in driving cases that demand drivers to react quickly and adapt to c...

Mindfulness plays a crucial role in reducing stress levels and enhancing executive functioning and self-regulation. Several studies have shown that technology can have positive effects because it can aid mindfulness training. This review is the second part of a project that investigates the advantages of technology and mindfulness in kindergarten....

Geometry is a branch of mathematics that deals with the properties of space, including distance, shape, size, and the relative position of figures. It is one of the oldest branches of mathematics and has applications in various fields such as science, art, architecture, and even in areas seemingly unrelated to mathematics. Studies show that working...

This paper explores the significant role of 3D printing and digital applications in enhancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education in both general and special schools. With the advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the integration of these technologies into educational systems has become increasingly critical. Th...

This study explores neuroplasticity through the use of virtual reality (VR) and brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections in response to learning, experience, and injury. VR offers a controlled environment to manipulate sensory inputs, while BCIs facilitate real-t...

and Gamification to create a comprehensive and inclusive educational framework. By examining existing literature, this narrative review highlights the potential of STREMING to enhance educational practices and ensure equal opportunities for all students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Key findings from various studies emphasi...

Theory of Mind (ToM) and Metacognition constitute two superior mental mechanisms that promote the smooth integration and adaptation of the individual in society. In particular, the ability to read minds introduces the individual into the social world, contributing to understanding oneself and others. Metacognition focuses on individual knowledge, c...

This review critically examines a broad spectrum of interventions aimed at bolstering executive functions (EFs) in children, a cornerstone for their academic, social, and cognitive development. We delve into a variety of EF enhancement strategies from June 2006 to March 2024, encompassing computer-based programs, physical exercises, classroom adjus...

The following review examines the use of social robots in mindfulness practices, with a focus on their application in preschool settings. Additionally, it explores the key attributes of social robots that could enhance their effectiveness in achieving targeted outcomes. This study is the initial phase of a project that aims to investigate the advan...

The potential of digital games to enhance learning in various areas of child development has attracted increasing interest in children’s emotional well-being and social–emotional difficulties. The present serious game named “The Park of Emotions” was based on the nine-level pyramid model of emotional intelligence, had conceptual relevance to the qu...

Due to COVID-19, Industry 4.0 technologies have been deeply integrated into our lives, making it possible to interact, learn, and be productive. The rise of ICT has been established for a lot of years, transforming the educational process of many students with more and more educators applying them in school settings and considering them an essentia...

According to recent data, many communities worldwide are multicultural nowadays. Culture is believed to significantly impact the creation of therapy materials, practice models, assessment instruments, and client collaboration. Also, recent works address the interaction between a therapist and a client and the need to understand a child's social nee...

Breathing is one of the most vital functions for being mentally and emotionally healthy. A growing number of studies confirm that breathing, although unconscious, can be under voluntary control. However, it requires systematic practice to acquire relevant experience and skillfulness to consciously utilize breathing as a tool for self-regulation. Af...

Theory of Mind (ToM) highlights the social-cognitive ability of the individual to communicate and interact effectively with the members of each social group. Essentially, it is the cornerstone of social knowledge that allows the recognition and understanding of the thoughts, intentions, and feelings of all involved, promoting social interaction and...

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter critically involved in various psychological and behavioral processes. This review highlights the impact of GABAergic dysfunction within specific brain regions on a range of mental disorders, executive processes, self-control, and behavioral regulation.Reductions in GABAergic neurotransmission wi...

Chatbots are dialogue systems that utilize computational linguistics (CL), including automatic speech recognition (ASR) and natural language processing (NLP). Artificially intelligent conversational agents combine personalization, interoperability, and scalability with the aim of promoting safe information monitoring, management, and retrieval. AI...

The 9-Layered Model of Giftedness is an innovative conceptual framework composed of an integrated set of abilities, skills and values that align with Goals 3, 4 and 8 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals for 2030: Good Health and Well-Being, Quality Education, and Decent Work and Economic Growth, respectively. The corresponding hierarchical mode...

The holistic growth and psychological well-being of people with special needs and disabilities remain high on the priority agenda for sustainable and inclusive education. Digital well-being technologies and especially "smart technologies", are ready to revolutionize mental health interventions by meeting trainees' needs and providing them with more...

Εducational (or pedagogical) robotics has received increased attention over the last few years based on its effectiveness on the learning process. Humanoid robots have been recently introduced in school settings to mainly support teaching of curriculum-based subjects. However, humanoid robots’ benefits on STEM education in typical classroom setting...

People are looking to the digital world for solutions to the challenges they face in their every-day lives, as technology continues to advance rapidly. People with impairments now have equal access to learning opportunities due to technological advancements. ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) has become more prevalent among children an...

Educational Robotics (ER) is a novel learning approach renowned mostly for its effects on scientific academic disciplines such as science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). According to recent research, ER can also influence cognitive development by increasing critical reasoning and planning abilities. The purpose of this study...

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increased demand for mental health interventions, with a special focus on digitally assisted ones. Self-regulation describes a set of meta-skills that enable one to take control over his/her mental health and it is recognized as a vital indicator of well-being. Mindfulness training is a promising tra...

This paper presents the outcomes of a research study that aimed to evaluate the anxiety levels of 10 individuals with autism using Internet of Things (IoT) technology, specifically a wireless smart watch. The incorporation of technology into daily life underscores the significance of recognizing its advantages in enhancing the well-being of individ...

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become increasingly integrated into various aspects of everyday life, including the emergence of the AI tool ChatGPT. This study aims to explore the potential benefits of AI tools, such as ChatGPT for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. Through a comprehensive literature review, this paper examines the im...

International psychiatry is facing major challenges due to the rapid increase in mental health issues. The forthcoming mental health crisis has opened the debate about the need to broaden the therapeutic horizons with the implementation of digitally assisted mindfulness practices within psychotherapeutic interventions. Mindfulness training is devel...

Environmental sensitivity, which refers to the capacity to recognize and react to environmental stimuli, has been linked to increased levels of metacognition, which is the capacity to learn about one's own learning processes. Sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) is a characteristic that can make people more sensitive to the stimuli and settings in...

The combination of virtual reality and fMRI is an innovative methodology that is used to make inferences about the neurological stimulations that take place in the brain of the person with ASD during the use of the VR tool. At the same time, the use of the Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) will be important, as it can be used to achieve direct interac...

It is a narrative collection of information related to the specific topic of video games and augmented reality, providing an evaluation of each element and its importance in relation to the students' mental skills. The notes are intended to give the reader an insight into the relevance and accuracy of the data, as well as the caliber of the sources...

The purpose of this research analysis is to identify the contribution of online applications to the integration of autistic individuals in typical educational contexts. The difficulties faced by both autistic people and teachers are analyzed. These difficulties are calls to improve the technology that has been introduced into the daily life of chil...

There is proof that kids and teens from ethnic minorities get less health care than their non-minority peers, despite the fact that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is more common in these populations. Minority children might not receive timely, adequate ADHD intervention because of the low socioeconomic position of minority parents,...

In recent years, neurodevelopmental disorders have been increasing. This article analyzes one of the causes causing the specific disorders. Through a literature review will be examined the environmental factors that are considered one of the causes of autism. In particular, the negative effect of heavy metals and other harmful elements in the atmos...

According to current data, a sizeable share of countries' populations are now multicultural. It is believed that culture significantly impacts the creation of therapeutic materials, practice models, methods for assessment, and client collaboration. Additionally, recent articles include the importance of understanding a child's needs in the context...

Sensory Integration Therapy (SIT) is a widely known and used intervention by a lot of professionals and practitioners in the field of special education as being an enabler of functionality of the child. Through intervention, the sensory processing components that have been affected are targeted. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmenta...

With the development of current technology and influences that have been made by the Industry 4.0 utilizing ICTs, IoT, smart systems and products and many others, Assistive Technology (AT) is an important and integral part of the daily life of many people who experience disabilities. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a special category of disorder...

In this paper, we study the features of big data and data analytics. We see how Big Data contributes to mobile networks. We give a term in which big data generally refers to a large amount of digital data. Also, we estimate that the amount processed by "Big Data" systems will double every two years. Hence, Big Data on mobile networks need to be ana...

Nowadays, more and more people are faced with symptoms of depression. This literature review focuses on adults with ADHD and depressive symptoms and presents the therapeutic technique of mindfulness and its benefits. The purpose of the paper was to add another method of reducing the symptoms of people who suffer from such difficulties in their dail...

Inclusion, equality, and well-being for all, especially for people with special needs and disabilities, is globally recognized as a priority. At the same time, there is an urgent need to create digital training environments for people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Virtual reality (VR) and gaming technologies have entered t...

In this paper we mention deep learning. Deep learning can be used to improve computing service provider revenue in the mobile blockchain network or to use a machine to study standard mobile detection tasks (e.g., activity recognition). Using deep neural networks can compare results with learning techniques in more common use. Also, we see the deep...

Numerous literature reviews and meta-analyses have examined the effectiveness of technology-based interventions in enhancing the reading skills of students facing difficulties in this area. However, given the rapid advancements in technology, it is crucial to review the most recent studies and their implementation methods in order to support studen...

The role of hormones and microbiota in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has been an area of growing interest and research. Studies have shown that individuals with ASD have differences in their hormonal stress response and gut microbiota compared to typically developing individuals, which may contribute to their difficulties with emo...

The difficulty faced by students in Geometry (ageometria) is a relatively new learning challenge that has yet to be extensively explored. Early detection and intervention are crucial. Students with dyslexia, like other students with special learning difficulties, face challenges in working memory. In addition, solving a geometric problem requires c...

DCD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects many levels of a person's functioning, displaying a multitude of features that persist throughout the person's life. Neurofeedback is a widely used form of non-invasive intervention that is implemented worldwide in non-DCD populations and is presented to be effective targeting a lot of difficulties...

Several years ago, a characteristic of leadership was the intelligence index, but in recent years this has changed, and emotional intelligence is considered an important parameter for a leader. A leader who shows a high index of emotional intelligence can activate his/her human potential and subsequently others. There is a large body of literature...

Technology is developing at a rapid pace, affecting the socioeconomic situation of the planet through innovation and the evolution of applications for easier and faster access to goods and services. The development of new technologies has also affected education. In this paper, the school of the future is presented with regard to emerging or expone...

In recent years, in the context of the educational reform, dominant position is held by the social demand for the inclusion of all students in the regular classroom and the request to redesign the educational process to align with the individualized needs of students. Τhe concept of inclusion, which view the heterogeneity in the light of social jus...

The purpose of this study was to examine teachers' attitudes and perceptions regarding the integration and development of Emotional Intelligence (ΕΙ) in preschool, primary, and secondary teaching levels within the school context. ΕΙ is a gateway to a balanced life. It is a major factor for a healthy development of interpersonal relationships, wheth...

In recent years there has been an increase in cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and attention deficit disorder. The causes of diseases and disorders are multifactorial. However, according to recent studies, special emphasis is placed on nutritional causes. Specific foods appear to cause damagin...

Parents need to develop their cognitive and metacognitive skills such as lifelong learning skills, self-leadership, self-regulation, empathy as well as mindfulness and self-consciousness in order to sustain their parenting role as well as develop their personal and professional capabilities. More specifically, emerging technologies, such as mobiles...

Theory of Mind constitutes a complex cognitive ability of the individual that impulses him to acquire social knowledge. While the development of Metacognition contributes to the construction of a higher mental structure, allowing the observation, control, and readjustment of the cognitive mechanism with the aim of its optimal performance. The prese...

Purpose: We used a web-based, Geographic Information System (GIS) software, ArcGIS Online, for creating a mobile application for iOS and Android phone devices. The application serves as a mapping tool that analyzes geospatial data referring to mobility disabled students and their level of accessibility in an attempt to go from their house to their...

This study examines the association between diet and other lifestyle factors of students with dyslexia and ADHD and compare it to students without learning disabilities. The study involved 210 students from Greek universities, aged 18-30 years old (ADHD n = 34; Dyslexia n=27, Students without learning disabilities n = 149). Students completed a spe...

Consciousness is a subjective, continuous, and dynamic process of the mind that builds, strengthens, and enriches the construct of Knowledge and Metacognition. It is at the core of the graded development of the three cognitive functions Consciousness-ToM-Metacognition, which show common mental processes (attention, observation, perception-thought e...

Consciousness is a cognitive function that maintains its eternal character as long as it is strengthened and enriched by the optimal functioning of the corresponding neural networks of the brain, which are stimulated during its activation. The present study explores its relationship with the cognitive functions of the Theory of Mind and Metacogniti...

Brain–Computer Interfaces (BCIs) are specialized systems that allow users to control computer applications using their brain waves.With thearrival of consumer-grade electroencephalography (EEG) equipment, brain-controlled systems began to find fertile ground in mental training.One particular area that is gradually gainingattention is thatof mindful...

Empathy and compassion have become a major focus for international research and appear to be important concepts in human development. There are several definitions and models of empathy and compassion available in the literature. Based on theoretical foundations, a new model of empathy-compassion-love is proposed in the present article. This new mo...

Digital games are a ubiquitous part of almost all children’s and adolescents’ lives. At the same time gaming industry is ready to unlock new levels of growth in the coming years (Granik et al., 2014). A growing number of studies have already focused on the beneficial effects of digital games on various aspects of cognition and health. However, less...

The aim of this research was to investigate the level of burnout, depression, anxiety and stress experienced by parents with a child with disabilities in Greece. In particular, the negative emotional state is investigated, as well as the factors that may contribute to the appearance of parental burnout, anxiety, stress and depression. The dominant...

The international organizations of education have already pointed out that the way students learn, what they learn, and the skills needed, will be radically transformed in the coming years. Smart technologies are ready to come into play, changing the conditions of learning, providing opportunities for transformative learning experiences, and promis...

Nowadays, the educational policy, in many countries, promotes equal access for all students, including those with disabilities, to the general school, against all forms of social exclusion. Inclusion, in an innovative sense of the concept of diversity, focuses on the active participation and interaction of a heterogeneous student population in the...

GIS is a technology used to keep track of the location of an object or a user to store and manipulate the data utilized for multiple applications. Wireless identification of IoT in combination with the capacity to proceed with spatial data expression and analysis offered by GIS can give rise to evolutionary applications, characterized by interopera...

In recent years, the notions of artificial intelligence and emotional intelligence have grown in popularity in the relevant literature. The development of technology, particularly in the area of artificial intelligence, has made it possible to examine the numerous facets of human emotional behaviour in new and powerful ways. This article constitute...

Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is important in achieving the goals: personal and social of each person in synergy with general intelligence ( IQ). In this work, the prevailing models of theories and evaluation of S.N are presented, and the role of ICTs in the application of their evaluation tools.

Mobile technology can set the ground for creating trusted communities that provide valuable guidance on new partnerships as well as alternative business models. Such business models encompass women's entrepreneurship adapted to the Agenda 2030 for sustainable development. In addition, small and medium-sized enterprises' growth strongly depends on m...

Memory is one of the most vital cognitive functions, affecting almost all aspects of human life. Meta-memory is considered a special part of metacognition that enables humans to acquire mnemonic knowledge and meta-skills to take control of their memory functions. In the digital era, the use of mobile applications to improve memory is constantly gai...

The purpose of the article is to highlight how students' computational thinking, which is a critical thinking skill, can be developed through educational robotics and programming. It is a fun and engaging learning activity that encourages students to collaborate, delve into a problem, construct knowledge, and cultivate critical thinking. Educationa...

The use of technologies to develop serious games for the enhancement of the abilities in the spectrum of emotional intelligence is of utmost importance and it has led progressively to the appearance of new applications. On the other hand, emotional intelligence is a very important concept that positively affects all areas of our lives. This paper a...

In this paper, our study focused on the framework of big data-driven and mobile optimization. We will study the significant points of 5G and previous mobile networks, and mostly we have a look at past mobile technologies. After that, we will focus on the future 5G Mobile Technology. We will make an essential reference to the architecture of the 5G...

Mobile applications are constantly increasing and people are trying to find solutions to problems in their daily life in the digital world. Digital developments provide equal access and learning opportunities to people with disabilities. Today, children spend most of their time using mobile devices. Therefore, addressing their difficulties through...

Chronic stress, even at a young age, has become a major health concern with the harmful effects on cognition, mood, and well-being largely underestimated. Mindfulness interventions are well-recognized as effective strategies in stress management. However, we know less about the impact of mindfulness on physiological indicators such as hormones/neur...

The aim of this article is to investigate whether or not charisma in children is considered inherited or not. There is no generally accepted definition of the gifted-charismatic child. However, various definitions of intellectual superiority include either general high capacity or high special capacity. The charisma of a child becomes apparent earl...

Serious Games indicate positive effects on pre-K and K-6 students and scaffold learning in a more engaging and motivating approach. Research has shown that Serious Games provide students with variety, the potential for widening participation, and the ability to work at their own pace. Serious Games based Learning has proven its added value in almos...

Young mothers face various obstacles in the labour market due to lack of skills in job search techniques, unpaid domestic labour responsibilities and, in developing countries, social isolation and restrictions. Business training programs targeting young mothers must be demand-driven and linked with private sector labour demands. In addition, life s...

One of the main goals of Special Education and E-learning for people with disabilities is the development and improvement of social communication, the interaction with those around them, and the socio-emotional empowerment of students for their inclusion as active and equal members in a privileged society as people-students with disabilities presen...

Serious Games appear to benefit children with special needs and provide a multidimensional approach to learning. According to research, Serious Games can help Special Education Needs children stay interested in their study by increasing their motivation, independence, autonomy, and resulting self-esteem. In practically every subject area of the cur...

This paper presents the functional specifications of a training platform for use in the training of cadets and serving officers. The game aims to teach trainees that their decisions need to be based both on strategic goals as well as on constraints imposed by international law concerning rules of engagement, ethical codes of conduct or environmenta...

During the past years, Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have been studies in a large number of fields. The term ICTs refers to all kinds of technologies that let users to have access, use and manipulate information (Drigas & Ioannidou, 2013a). ICT can bridge the gap between groups of people with special (educational) needs. The gro...

The focus of this paper is to take a bibliographical look at the existing research concerning students who are considered to be twice exceptional. The specific aim is to find and analyze the most prevalent data available up to the present time of this writing regarding children who possess characteristics on both sides of the learning spectrum, nam...

Gifted and talented students do not constitute one homogenious group. This fact evokes the need for definition of their characteristics and identification of this population. Undoubtedly metacognitive skills can lead one to recognize his/her strengths and weaknesses and lead him/herself to the upper levels of the pyramid of knowledge. Moreover iden...

Gifted and talented students do not constitute one homogenious group. This fact evokes the need for definition of their characteristics and identification of this population. Undoubtedly metacognitive skills can lead one to recognize his/her strengths and weaknesses and lead him/herself to the upper levels of the pyramid of knowledge. Moreover iden...

Gifted and talented students do not constitute one homogenious group. This fact evokes the need for the definition of their characteristics and identification of this population. Undoubtedly metacognitive skills can lead one to recognize his/her strengths and weaknesses and lead him/herself to the upper levels of the pyramid of knowledge. Moreover,...

Sports activities offer significant benefits to the human body. In addition to the physical benefits that exercise offers, it also provides mental benefits because the human brain is practiced to meet the needs of the sports. The human brain is the one that activates the members of the human body to make the necessary movements. However, over time...

Down syndrome is considered to be one of the most prevalent genetic causes of intellectual disability, derived from chromosomal disorder, which accounts for dysfunctions in many organs and has a characteristic phenotype, which consists of physical and behavioral features. Many studies have shown that language is one of the most impaired areas of fu...