Interactive robotic teacher gets thumbs up

Results have shown that a robotic teaching assistant used in trials in the classroom have been an astounding success.? An electronic robot that can read stories and guide children through an extensive range of interactive learning card activities has been praised as a ?strong support tool for children whose confidence in literacy and numeracy needs special attention,? according to the first phase of research carried out by the Institute of Education. The project was carried out in three very different state and independent primary schools. RED the robot was monitored by researchers at the institute, over the course of the study which lasted two terms. The researchers assessed how the system can be used in primary schools and Early Years settings to introduce and support the Government?s preferred Letters and Sounds phonics programme.

?Designed mainly for one to one and small group learning but with the potential for class based activity, RED the Robot? is ideal for reinforcement learning with all children and is a friendly face in the classroom where children can work at their own pace with teacher supervision without being overwhelmed by the class situation,? said Dr Maria Da Costa from The Institute of Education.

The system is initially available for the teaching of children from 3 years and up. Content currently covers the Early Years Foundation Stages through to the end of Key Stage 1, though there are plans to expand both the content and age scope of the system.

?After the teacher has taught the pupils a new concept, RED enables children to practice what they have been taught through hundreds of different fully interactive activity cards and other great resources specifically designed to interact with this friendly robot. If the child correctly answers the questions posed by RED, they are praised by the robot and encouraged to keep working.

?If the child can use the interactive cards correctly without any assistance, the teacher is able to assess their learning against curriculum criteria? said educational development director Lisa Thompson, of the Exeter-based company.

The introduction of the interactive robot follows the call by the Schools Secretary, Ed Balls, for children?s reading at home and at school to receive “a national revolution.” Although 84% of 11-year-olds achieved the required reading standards last year, this is only one percentage point higher than in 2000, and on average boys’ reading and writing abilities still fall consistently below girls.

The second phase of the trials will begin shortly, assessing how children?s rapid educational development can be enhanced by RED the Robot.