How to Know if Telepresence Robots are Right for Your Business

As technology continues to advance, schools are increasingly turning to innovative solutions to provide students with the best possible educational experience. One of the latest and most exciting developments in this field is the use of telepresence robots in schools.

What Are Telepresence Robots for Schools?

Telepresence robots for schools are mobile devices that can be controlled remotely by teachers and students. These robots for schools typically include a display screen, camera, microphone, and speakers, allowing remote participants to see and hear what is happening in the classroom. They can be controlled using a variety of devices, such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, and are often equipped with sensors and other advanced features that allow them to be moved around the classroom and school grounds independently by the "remote" student.

Benefits of Telepresence Robots for Schools

There are several key benefits to using telepresence robots in schools, including:

Improved Access to Education

One of the biggest benefits of telepresence robots for schools is that they can improve access to education. For example, students who are unable to attend school in person due to illness or disability can still participate in classroom activities and discussions using a telepresence robot. This allows them to stay connected with their classmates and keep up with their studies, even if they are unable to attend school in person.

Enhanced Learning Opportunities

Telepresence robots can also provide students with enhanced learning opportunities. For example, they can enable students to participate in virtual field trips, connect with experts in different fields, and collaborate with students from other schools or countries. This can broaden students' horizons and provide them with a more immersive and engaging learning experience.

Improved Teacher Collaboration

Telepresence robots can also improve collaboration among teachers. For example, teachers can use telepresence robots to connect with colleagues at other schools or attend professional development workshops remotely. This can help teachers to stay up-to-date with the latest educational practices and share best practices with colleagues in different locations.

Telepresence robots can benefit a wide range of school students, including:

• Homebound or hospital-bound students: Students who are unable to physically attend school due to illness or disability can use telepresence robots to attend classes and interact with their teachers and classmates remotely, in real time.
• Rural or remote students: Students who live in rural or remote areas may have limited access to educational resources and opportunities. Telepresence robots can connect these students with teachers and other students in other parts of the country or world, expanding their learning opportunities and social interactions.
• English language learners: Telepresence robots can be used to support English language learners by providing access to virtual English-speaking tutors or language learning programs.
• Special education students: Telepresence robots can help students with special needs, such as those with autism or mobility issues, to participate in classroom activities and social interactions.
• Gifted or advanced learners: Telepresence robots can be used to provide advanced or gifted students with access to higher-level classes or specialised programs that may not be available at their local schools.
• Student events and excursions: Telepresence robots allow students to virtually explore diverse locations on excursions, enhancing learning experiences and expanding their environments and understanding.
  

As a teacher, there are numerous lessons that can be taught via telepresence robot to a remote student. Some examples include:

1. Virtual Field Trips: Telepresence robots can take remote students on virtual field trips to museums, galleries, and other cultural sites. This allows students to interact with exhibits and ask questions in real-time, as if they were there in person.
2. Collaborative Learning: Telepresence robots can be used for collaborative learning activities, where remote students work together with their peers in the classroom on projects and assignments.
3. Language Learning: Telepresence robots can be used to connect remote students with native speakers of a language they are studying. This can provide students with an opportunity to practice their language skills in real-world situations.
4. STEM Education: Telepresence robots can be used to facilitate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education by allowing remote students to participate in experiments, demonstrations, and simulations.
5. Music Lessons: Telepresence robots can be used to provide music lessons to remote students by allowing them to interact with a music teacher in real-time.
6. Guest Speakers: Telepresence robots can be used to bring guest speakers into the classroom, allowing remote students to participate in discussions and ask questions.
7. Physical Education: Telepresence robots can be used to facilitate physical education by allowing remote students to participate in fitness classes and other activities.
8. Special Education: Telepresence robots can be used to provide special education services to remote students, allowing them to receive individualised instruction and support from a teacher or therapist.

These are just a few examples of how telepresence robots can be used to facilitate remote learning and provide educational opportunities to students who are unable to attend school in person. By using telepresence robots for schools in creative ways, teachers can engage remote students and help them achieve their educational goals.

How are telepresence robots integrated into the classroom?

Introducing a telepresence robot into the classroom can be a fun and exciting way to engage your students and bring new technology into your teaching practice. Here are some steps you can follow to introduce a telepresence robot into your classroom:

Research telepresence robots

Before introducing a telepresence robot into your classroom, it's important to do your research and find the right robot for your needs. Consider factors such as cost, ease of use, and compatibility with your existing technology

Educate yourself

Once you've chosen a telepresence robot, take the time to learn how to use it. Read the user manual, watch instructional videos, and experiment with the robot to become comfortable with its features and functions.

Introduce the robot to your students

When you're ready to introduce the robot to your students, start by explaining what it is and how it works. Show them how the robot can move around the classroom and interact with them through video and audio.

Involve your students

Encourage your students to take an active role in using the robot. Assign students to operate the robot during class activities or allow them to take turns interacting with the robot during class discussions.

Set ground rules

Establish clear guidelines for using the robot in the classroom. For example, you may want to limit the amount of time students can spend operating the robot or establish rules around the types of activities the robot can be used for.

Use the robot in your lessons

Once your students are familiar with the robot, start incorporating it into your lessons. Use the robot to bring in guest speakers or to take virtual field trips to other locations.

Get feedback

After using the robot in your classroom for a while, take the time to get feedback from your students. Ask them what they like about the robot and how it has helped them to learn. Use their feedback to make adjustments and improve your use of the robot in the future.

Maintain the robot

Finally, be sure to take care of your telepresence robot to ensure that it continues to function properly. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for maintenance and storage, and address any issues as soon as they arise.

Introducing a telepresence robot into your classroom can be a great way to engage your students and bring new technology into your teaching practice. By following these steps, you can introduce a telepresence robot into your classroom in a fun and effective way that benefits both you and your students.

Considerations When Implementing Telepresence Robots in Schools

While telepresence robots can provide many benefits for schools, there are also several key considerations to keep in mind when implementing this technology. These include:

1) Cost

Telepresence robots are an investment, and schools will need to consider the cost of purchasing and maintaining these devices. However, some schools may be able to secure funding or grants to help cover the cost. Also, not-for-profit programs, such as MissingSchool's Seen&Heard Initiative can assist in providing telepresence technology and other assistive technologies to schools for students with serious illness or injury.

2) Technical Support

Telepresence robots can be complex devices, and schools will need to ensure that they have adequate technical support in place to maintain and troubleshoot these devices. This may require additional training or the hiring of dedicated technical staff. Purchasing through distributors who also offer ongoing technical support can alleviate any stress around technical troubleshooting.

3) Privacy and Security

Telepresence robots are equipped with cameras and microphones, which may raise privacy and security concerns. Schools will need to ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect the privacy of students and staff. This can be achieved by conducting risk assessments, providing training to teachers, staff and students, setting usage guidelines, incorporating safety features, monitoring usage, securing data by checking compliance and certifications, and obtaining parental consent for allowing use.

By addressing these considerations, schools can help ensure that telepresence robots are safe for use in the classroom, while also providing valuable educational opportunities for students who are unable to attend school in person.

Telepresence robots are an exciting new technology that can provide many benefits for schools. By enabling remote students to participate in classroom activities and discussions, providing enhanced learning opportunities, and improving collaboration among teachers, telepresence robots can help to improve educational outcomes for all students. However, schools will need to carefully consider the cost, technical support, and privacy and security implications of implementing this technology.

By working closely with teachers, students, and other stakeholders, educators can ensure that telepresence robots for schools are used in a way that maximises their potential and supports the needs of all learners.

About Robots4Good

As a leading provider of robots as a service, Robots4Good is the exclusive supplier of OhmniLabs services and robots in Australia and New Zealand for business, manufacturing, schools, hospitals, disability and aged care settings.