The AV1 telepresence avatar was developed to enable students who are unable to attend in-person classes for an extended period due to illness or other health limitations to actively participate in daily school life.

The AV1 is equipped with a camera and a microphone, which allow the absent student to follow the lesson in real time and actively participate. Using a user-friendly app, students can control the robot, look around the classroom, and even ask questions or participate in discussions. This not only promotes academic performance but also supports the emotional well-being and social integration of the affected students.

The avatar is preconfigured by the media center; schools, parents, and children need do nothing more than turn it on and charge it occasionally. The accompanying app connects automatically and securely to the avatar. If the avatar ever loses Wi-Fi connection, it automatically uses all German cellular networks thanks to its built-in SIM cards. The AV1 helps prevent social isolation and promote school integration by providing students with a continuous connection to their teachers and classmates.

Schools can borrow the avatar free of charge from the Media Center. Teachers, students, and parents then receive a comprehensive resource package with templates for letters to parents, a “Getting Started” guide for the classroom, a classroom poster, and much more. By default, the avatar is named Toni, Sam, Charly, etc., in Wiesbaden, but each child can also give it their own name and even further personalize it if they wish. 

There is generally no time limit on its use. However, for very long-term use, it’s worth considering applying to your health insurance provider for a personal device as an assistive aid. The Media Center can also manage this device and coordinate with the health insurance provider.