Chair-Mountable Teleoperated Avatar Robot for Hybrid Class Activities

HCI Society of KOREA (HCIK '24)

Co-Author

Despite extensive research in HCI on remote interaction, the unique challenges of hybrid small-group settings remain underexplored, leaving a gap in understanding how to integrate and engage between in-person and remote students seamlessly. We present the FoldiFolda system, designed to create more immersive and engaging hybrid classes. Folda, a robotic avatar that can be installed on chairs, features actuator units for arm and head movements and an expression unit with lighting fingers and remote touch palms to support communication. Foldi is a remote controller that streams the classroom and manages Folda’s movements and expressions. A user study with 12 participants in a simulated class with three interactive activities showed that FoldiFolda enhances belonging, communication, and social interaction by mimicking human appearance and behaviors. We discuss the effects of robots transitioning from objects to humanoid forms, their impact on online students’ confidence, and insights on optimal anthropomorphism levels in robots.

Computer Mediated Communication, Education, Learning, Educational Environment, Robot, Artifact and System