Teachers' Perspectives on Using a Telepresence Robot When Teaching Students Suffering From Long-Term Illnesses

• In Event: Spotlight on Technology in Special Education

Abstract

We examined teachers’ perspectives on using a telepresence robot when teaching long-term ill students. Long-term illness and hospitalisation affect not only students’ health but also their continued education, social development, and emotional attachment. AV1 is a telepresence robot for children and young adults with long-term illnesses. It helps such students with social isolation and loneliness by allowing them to participate in school activities, thus facilitating their return to school. We have interviewed six teachers on their attitudes and beliefs regarding the use of AV1 at school. In the interviews, the teachers focused on the pedagogical and technological opportunities and challenges of having the robot in their classroom.

Authors

• Silje Hoelland, Oslo Metropolitan University (previous Oslo and Akershus University College of Applied Sciences)

• Cecilie Pedersen Dalland, OsloMet - Oslo Metropolitan University