Telepresence in NSW Public Schools

The Technology 4 Learning team have introduced telepresence robots into NSW classrooms to provide the opportunity for every student to be known, valued and cared for with the power of technology.

What is telepresence?

Telepresence is a means for people to be present in a different location from where they are physically located, utilising the power of technology.

For schools, telepresence is a ground-breaking way for students to continue to attend school when they are physically unable to do so as a result of ill-health or other issues. Students can dial in to a telepresence robot that is inside their classroom from a phone, tablet or computer from any location.

Unlike an online video call such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams, students can move the telepresence robot around, giving them autonomy over where they are, who they talk to and what they can see and hear.

What does telepresence look like in the classroom?

Think of a telepresence robot as being like another student in the classroom. The student will have access to a range of learning experiences, and can move, speak, listen and share with their class.

Take a look at the video below to see telepresence in action!

Why would you use telepresence?

Students suffering from a chronic or long-term illness, or other issues that prevent them from attending school, can have an ongoing presence at school via a telepresence robot.

Teachers, guest speakers, experts and dignitaries from across the world are also able to dial in to a telepresence robot from any location, enhancing learning opportunities and bringing the world to the classroom!

Learn more

Take a peek at a special brochure that has been compiled in collaboration with The Hospital School at Westmead to learn more about the power of telepresence. You can share this brochure by passing on this link - https://edu.nsw.link/T&LWithTelepresence

Find out how you can access a telepresence robot for a student in your school or classroom

The Technology 4 Learning team have a small fleet of robots that can be accessed by NSW Public Schools on a first come, first served basis. If you can see a need for a robot to support your school or student, complete the application form and the team will be in touch to discuss the suitability of telepresence in your setting.

Further resources

The use of telepresence robots in the classroom is governed by the Department’s Live Video Guidelines page
To connect with other schools and teachers using telepresence in the classroom, join the Telepresence Community in MS Teams
For technical information and support resources access the stem.T4L Learning Library
For all other enquires contact the stem.T4L support team

*Content on this page has been transcribed from the Telepresence brochure which was developed in collaboration with The Hospital School at Westmead.

Return to top of page

Technology 4 Learning