This Little Robot Is Revolutionizing School Attendance for Sick Children
For children dealing with long-term illnesses or mental health challenges, being absent from school extends beyond the physical effects of their condition; it often results in social isolation. Norwegian firm No Isolation has addressed this issue with the creation of the AV1 robot. Designed to act as a child's presence in the classroom, AV1 assists sick children in staying connected both academically and socially.
Features and Functionality
The AV1 robot is a minimalistic representation of a human head and torso equipped with a camera, microphone, and speaker. Capable of rotating 360 degrees, it is placed on a classroom desk where students control it through a secure app using a unique password. "Students can observe various areas of their classroom by tapping or swiping on their device screen," explained Florence Salisbury, No Isolation’s marketing director. The students can communicate via the robot with peers and teachers and alert their participation with a "raise hand" light feature. Additionally, they can select emojis to be shown in the robot’s eyes to express emotions.
Availability and Impact
With around 3,000 AV1 robots active across 17 countries, the UK and Germany comprise the majority of users. In the UK, renting an AV1 costs approximately £150 ($200) monthly, while a one-time purchase is available for £3,700. A service package is accessible for £780 yearly. Salisbury highlighted the robot’s key advantage: its ability to help maintain social connections. An English student using an AV1 has found social inclusion as friends manage to integrate the robot into their daily activities. For children, particularly those with medical conditions, the AV1 provides an essential link back to their educational environment.
Addressing Challenges
Despite its advantages, the AV1 system does face some challenges. Michael Douglas of the UK’s Chartwell Cancer Trust mentions that logistical and administrative obstacles can impede implementation, and certain technical limitations such as poor Wi-Fi coverage could hinder operations. Research asserts the importance of preparedness for such tech, emphasizing training for educators in the social and operational aspects of these robots. It becomes crucial to establish equitable access to such advancements, ensuring all children can benefit from them.
Technical Advancements and Privacy
Endorsing this technological aid's seamless function, No Isolation has launched the AV1 Academy to offer a range of training resources. Complementing its ease of use are the privacy features these robots offer: no personal data is captured, and the app prohibits capturing screenshots or recordings. The video feeds have strong encryption, and only one user can access the device at a time, marked by visual cues on the device.
While similar technologies such as robots using wheels or displaying the user's face on-screen exist, the lightweight 1-kilogram AS1 prioritizes ease and privacy. Not being on camera reduces stress and is particularly beneficial for children reluctant about classroom settings due to emotions tied to their illness.
Providing both privacy and seamless social integration, the AV1 robot serves as both a technological and emotional support tool, maintaining children’s ties and presence in their educational journeys.
Earlier, SSP wrote that AI-based robot SenseRobot Ches helps children learn to play chess.
