The AV1 telepresence avatar was developed to enable pupils who are unable to take part in face-to-face lessons for a longer period of time due to illness or other health restrictions to actively participate in everyday school life.

The AV1 is equipped with a camera and microphone that allow the absent pupil to follow lessons in real time and actively participate. Via a user-friendly app, pupils can control the robot, look around the classroom and even ask questions or take part in discussions. This not only promotes academic performance, but also the emotional well-being and social integration of the pupils concerned.

The avatar is preconfigured by the media center; schools, parents and children do not have to do anything other than switch it on and recharge it occasionally. The associated app connects to the avatar automatically and in encrypted form. If the avatar doesn't have Wi-Fi, it automatically uses all three German mobile networks thanks to its built-in SIM cards. The AV1 helps to prevent social isolation and promote school integration by enabling pupils to stay in constant contact with their teachers and classmates.

The avatar can be borrowed by schools free of charge from the media center. Teachers, pupils and parents then receive a comprehensive package of materials including templates for letters to parents, first steps in the classroom, a poster for the classroom and much more. Although the avatar in Wiesbaden is called Toni by default, the child can give it their own name and even personalize it further if they wish.

Use is not limited in time. For very long-term use, however, you should consider applying for a personal device as an aid from your own health insurance company. The media center can also look after this device and cooperate with the health insurance company.