Telepresence Robots (TPRs) are gaining popularity in higher education due to their potential benefits, such as facilitating remote teacher lectures and enhancing student accessibility. However, their integration presents challenges, including maneuverability limitations, physical and behavioral issues, and user experience and training needs. This paper explores innovative methods for upskilling educators to use TPRs effectively in higher education settings. To this end, three approaches were used: Robot Rally Design, Virtual Tours with a TPR, and a Mini-Lecture. The first approach saw participants operating TPRs in a dedicated room with a robot rally track set up elsewhere. The second approach investigated using TPRs to facilitate virtual guided tours, with one individual serving as the TPR driver. The third approach was a mini-lecture, which included active teaching methods to prepare teachers for using TPRs. According to the pilot results, all activities helped increase situational awareness and understanding of TPRs and their application in the learning process. The rally improved participants’ confidence and proficiency in using the robot interface and driving. Guided tours with TPRs provided an immersive remote exploration experience. Integrating mini-lectures with hands-on sessions enhanced user proficiency and understanding of TPR applications. Further research is needed to develop a concise teacher-training program and evaluate the effectiveness of combining all three approaches into one workshop.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

Design and Pilot Implementation of Telepresence Robots in Higher Education Courses

  • Tiina Kasuk,
  • Janika Leoste,
  • Aleksandra Savova,
  • Branko Andjic,
  • Kristof Fenyvesi

摘要

Telepresence Robots (TPRs) are gaining popularity in higher education due to their potential benefits, such as facilitating remote teacher lectures and enhancing student accessibility. However, their integration presents challenges, including maneuverability limitations, physical and behavioral issues, and user experience and training needs. This paper explores innovative methods for upskilling educators to use TPRs effectively in higher education settings. To this end, three approaches were used: Robot Rally Design, Virtual Tours with a TPR, and a Mini-Lecture. The first approach saw participants operating TPRs in a dedicated room with a robot rally track set up elsewhere. The second approach investigated using TPRs to facilitate virtual guided tours, with one individual serving as the TPR driver. The third approach was a mini-lecture, which included active teaching methods to prepare teachers for using TPRs. According to the pilot results, all activities helped increase situational awareness and understanding of TPRs and their application in the learning process. The rally improved participants’ confidence and proficiency in using the robot interface and driving. Guided tours with TPRs provided an immersive remote exploration experience. Integrating mini-lectures with hands-on sessions enhanced user proficiency and understanding of TPR applications. Further research is needed to develop a concise teacher-training program and evaluate the effectiveness of combining all three approaches into one workshop.