Muscular Dystrophy Foundation Denmark
In response to the Covid 19 pandemic, the Danish Muscular Dystrophy Foundation purchased 21 AV1s.
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In response to the Covid 19 pandemic, the Danish Muscular Dystrophy Foundation purchased 21 AV1 robots. In a survey they conducted they found that 72% of the children and adolescents between 6-13 years have been able to participate more fully in school since using their robot.
This has led to a dramatic decrease in school absenteeism as 56% of the students have been able to use their robots, to access all of their lessons, everyday during the pandemic. As one mother explains, her son, who was previously absent for 25% of the school year, has had close to no absences since receiving AV1.
School absenteeism is a common challenge for many children and young adults with muscular dystrophy. 13 out of the 21 participants in the study have been in total isolation and unable to physically attend school for over 9 months during 2020. The robots have provided a welcomed alternative for the students, allowing them to participate and remain a part of their school communities.
Social aspects
“If the robot wasn’t there I would have been very lonely, and wouldn’t be able to see my friends or follow what's happening at school"
The participants were asked whether they felt a part of the school community whilst using their robot. The figure illustrates that 87% of the children and adolescents answered that they felt a part of their school community. This question has to be seen in the context of the alternative which, for some, meant not taking part in their school community at all.
Educational aspects
The participants were also asked if they are actively participating in classes. The figure below illustrates that 83% of the participants answered that they actively participate in class through the robot.
In addition, 3 of the participants answered directly that the robot has made it possible for them to complete school:
"The robot means that despite corona and long-term absence caused by a back surgery I can realistically finish secondary school with a good result."
– Student participating in the study
Transferability
"The robot also has great potential to support other target groups that are struggling with school absenteeism. Our experiences can certainly be transferred to others."
– Project coordinator in the Danish Muscular Dystrophy Foundation, Sofie Skoubo.
However, the project manager stresses that telepresence technology for the classroom is still relatively novel for most teachers. As a result, many will have questions regarding the ethical and security implications of using a robot in the classroom. The Danish Muscular Dystrophy foundation concludes that best practice implementation requires good counselling. With the right guidance and delivery of information it is possible to support the teachers to feel safe using the robot.
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