An elementary science class with a robot teacher

Abstract

This paper considers a science lesson given through mediation of the humanoid RoboThespian to groups of school students (grades 5–7) at the science museum MadaTech. The lesson included theoretical explanations, handson experiments, and a knowledge quiz, all instructed and managed by means of the robot-teacher through programmed behaviors and remote teleoperation. We present the lesson design and implementation in two settings with different characteristics of teacher immediacy, discuss students’ outcomes and perceptions. The study shows the feasibility of using robotic assistants in science classes and uncovers the factors that influence learning in such settings.