A pilot project to introduce a humanoid robot and an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered teaching assistant at Salamanca High School in New York State has sparked intense debate, with teachers strongly opposing the initiative. Educators have described the project as “unreasonable,” arguing that bringing robots into classrooms as substitutes for human educators could undermine the dignity and value of the teaching profession.
Located in the Allegany Territory of the Seneca Nation in New York, Salamanca High School will introduce the humanoid robot named “Sally” as part of the experimental program. The robot, which costs $57,590, has been designed to operate within a specific range of functions. However, approved students will reportedly be able to access its virtual assistance 24 hours a day.
Project officials claim that “Sally” will create personalized learning opportunities for students and support hands-on education through advanced technology. The robot was developed by Toronto-based technology company Realbotix.
According to the company, the Cattaraugus County School District, which oversees Salamanca High School, is the first school district in the United States to introduce a humanoid robot and AI teaching assistant in this capacity. Under the pilot project, a humanoid robot from Realbotix’s M-series will be deployed. The system is designed to enhance students’ learning experiences through natural conversations, facial expressions, and real-time interaction.
However, teachers have raised serious concerns about the initiative. Lacey Pihlblad, president of the Salamanca Teachers Association and a teacher at the school, expressed concerns over the security of Realbotix’s software. She said there must be clear answers regarding how students’ personal data will be collected and stored, as well as the extent of the robot’s recording capabilities.
Pihlblad has urged the school district to suspend the robot’s deployment until these concerns are addressed. She emphasized that teachers, parents, and community members should be consulted before introducing such technologies into classrooms.
She further noted that discussions are underway in New York State about reducing excessive dependence on technology in education. According to her, maintaining human interaction and limiting unnecessary technological intrusion are essential for students’ development.
Melinda Person, president of the New York State United Teachers (NYSUT), has also criticized the project. Speaking to British newspaper The Guardian, she said placing a lifeless machine in front of students is not a positive step for education.
According to Person, children and teenagers learn important lessons through human communication, friendship, and social relationships. She warned that introducing a machine capable of imitating human behavior into classrooms could weaken the human element of teaching.
The selection of a school with a significant number of Indigenous students for testing humanoid robot technology has also raised questions at the local level. Nearly 40 percent of Salamanca High School’s students are Native American.
Some local residents have argued that more extensive discussions should have taken place before introducing such technology among students from a culturally significant community. However, leaders of the Seneca Nation have declined to make an official comment on the matter.
Source: The Guardian, Realbotix.