A humanoid robot that works for special education in New Jersey
Meet “Alphabot,” our very own, interactive, 23-inch-tall humanoid robot who offers many new, exciting possibilities for students at Alpha School. This small, but mighty special education teaching tool is opening doors to the minds of our students.
With technology as an integral part of our everyday lives, the need for intelligent, responsive tech continues to grow.
Nao, an autonomous, programmable humanoid robot who we have named, “Alphabot,” has transformed the way we teach STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in the classroom and is used to enhance academic and therapeutic instruction. With a wide variety of customizable applications inspired by a variety of methods (including ABA, PECS, TEACCH, DENVER, and SCERTS), “Alphabot” has an user-friendly online interface to help teachers plan, monitor and track student’s progress. “Alphabot” also interacts with children to determine their impact on learning.
The program, ASK Nao (Autism Solution for Kids) was built on the success of previous studies which showed that children with autism achieved a 30 percent increase in social interactions and better verbal communication when a robot is in the same room. The studies also showed that these improvements can extend to interactions with parents and therapists.
But what gets the kids the most excited is not just that our humanoid robot acts as an assistant to our teachers but also acts as their buddy.
Humanoid Robots as Buddies for Exceptional Children
Individuals with autism and other developmental disorders often struggle with social skills and communicating. Research has found that robots can help with that. Acting as a bridge of communication between a student and their teacher, humanoid robots can also be customized for a particular child’s needs.
“Alphabot” leverages intelligent voice and perceptual systems to receive commands and execute corresponding responses through sensor-based interaction. Our innovative humanoid robot is capable of simultaneous interpretation, voice search, visual interaction and providing verbal reminders.
On an average day at Alpha School, you can find “Alphabot” captivating friends in the classroom leading fun, interactive games, responding to commands or teaching Tai Chi. The humanoid robot allows the user to choose from over 50 different activities, games and dances which are triggered simply by clicking an icon of the desired behavior.
Bridging the Technology Gap with Humanoid Robots within our network of schools
Since 1980, RKS Associates has been a leader in meeting the needs of special education students and helping children grow to their fullest potential. Located in Jackson, New Jersey, Alpha School, incorporates technology into all of our classroom and therapy areas. In addition to computers, augmentative technology, white board systems and iPads, we aim to bridge the gap between the world of technology and our students by using “Alphabot,” the humanoid robot.
Alphabot is excited for the school year ahead at Alpha School and ready to stimulate social interactions with students to help them realize their full potential. Contact us at our main office at 732.370.1150 with any questions or request a private tour of Alpha School today.