Tasmania: A New York school district has drawn global attention after announcing plans to trial a humanoid robot named “Sally” as a classroom teaching assistant in a high school.
Designed with lifelike silicone skin, long brown hair, and realistic facial features, Sally can move her head, arms, and face while remaining seated. According to its manufacturer, the robot is capable of engaging in natural conversations, displaying facial expressions, and interacting with students and teachers in real time.
Sally is not intended to replace teachers. Instead, it will function as a classroom assistant, answering questions from students and educators through chatbot-style interactions. The system will also be available outside school hours, allowing students to access academic support 24/7 through a digital avatar online.
The trial is part of an effort to explore how artificial intelligence and robotics can support teaching and learning in classrooms.
