Arizona State University, the always-sunny public university located 13 miles east of Phoenix, has become a highly reputed institution over the past 100+ years. They are known for their robust curricula, gifted teachers, valuable research, and a fun-filled campus. But recently they have added another dimension of achievement to its venerable repertoire: robots. Yes, I said robots. The W.P. Carey School of Business has unveiled a new program allowing students who are unable to attend class due to extenuating circumstances to virtually join the class via robots.

The robots are around 4 feet tall, have wheels for legs, an iPad for a face, and a pole in place of a body. With just an internet connection, a student can log on to an app to gain control of a robot, which then displays the student’s face for everyone to see. The robot has a camera and microphone installed on top of the iPad, allowing the remote user to see, and navigate around, the classroom, as well as communicate with anyone in the vicinity. Think of it as a more realistic FaceTime or Skype. 

These robots allow students the opportunity to participate in the class in a meaningful way when they cannot physically be there. They can “sit” next to their classmates, “walk” around the classroom, and converse with fellow students or teachers.

ASU will probably begin to expand its robotics efforts as the technology improves, which is good news for students who always have time conflicts with class.