High school student goes to class robotically

Purpose – This paper seeks to build awareness of how telepresence or service robots are coming to the aid of students who might not otherwise be able to attend school in person or others who might need to be in two places at once. Design/methodology/approach – Discussions with the manufacturer and review of other coverage of the VGo telepresence or service robot in action. Findings – A service robot can really enhance the educational experience of students by allowing them to be “at school” when previously they were precluded from joining in with fellow students in the classroom and other school venues. The service robot gives humans the ability to independently see, hear, join in and move about the school or business situations when otherwise they might not be able to be present when they want or are needed somewhere else. Originality/value – A real example of how a service robot can permit a human to be in two places at once, such as a student who cannot go to school in person. It goes well beyond providing audio and visual linkage to also providing mobility.