Thanks to two USDA grants, the Rural Education Center, was able to provide 18 districts in the state of Kansas with telepresence robots. While not their original intended purpose, the robots have been a timely tool with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kati Thul, Assistant Superintendent from Renwick USD 267 shared that they were able to use the robots when students were quarantined. Teachers had the robot in class and the student at home was able to “remote” in and be a part of each class. The Robot allowed students to feel connected to the classroom while they were not able to attend in-person.
Prairie Hills USD 113 had a similar experience. When they resumed in person classes during the pandemic, one student was unable to be present. She was able to use the robot to learn remotely. Having the flexibility to maneuver around the school allowed her to spend time with friends during recess. This was critical for her social development and general well-being. She was even able to “attend” a ceremony to accept a reading award!
Lisa Suhr, Technology Integration Specialist from Prairie Hills, also shared that they were able to share their students’ art at their annual Art Show with family and friends who couldn’t attend in person. Family members from as far away as Florida were able to use the robots to “walk” through the show and enjoy the students’ art.
The College of Education has piloted a remote field experience program for its students. Allowing students to remotely observe classrooms in locations where they likely wouldn’t normally have the opportunity has been a great success. We are exploring expanding this program to give more EDCATS the opportunity to observe in rural schools. In addition to being good pre-service students, it is a great opportunity for rural school districts to highlight their strengths and build connections with future teachers who may have an interest in rural education.