Explore the groundbreaking field of Socially Assistive Robotics (SAR) in this illuminating lecture by Dr. Maja Matarić. Delve into the development of intelligent, socially interactive machines that provide assistance through social rather than physical means. Discover how SAR leverages human engagement with lifelike agents to monitor, motivate, and sustain user activities, improving learning, training, performance, and health outcomes. Examine research on embodiment, social dynamics modeling, and long-term adaptation in SAR, with applications in stroke rehabilitation, autism therapy, and eldercare. Gain insights into the commercial potential and future frontiers of SAR, as well as its interdisciplinary nature spanning engineering, health sciences, neuroscience, and social sciences.