RED the Robot is already being used by early years settings and primary schools to teach children from the age of three, with content covering the Early Years Foundation Stage to the end of Key Stage One.
Dr Maria Da Costa, who led the Institute of Education study, said, 'Our initial trials have allowed children and staff at schools in Suffolk and Essex to explore freely how RED the Robot can work alongside teachers in promoting confidence and learning in children.'
The robot can be used in small groups or one-to-one, and allows children to learn at their own pace with teacher supervision.
The first phase of the research looked at the robot's impact on children's learning in three primary schools. Second phase trials will involve more prescriptive tests in controlled conditions to assess the robot's effect on child development.
The interactive robot, made by Head Start Learning System, supports the Government's Letters and Sounds programme. It helps children to practise what they have learned with interactive activity cards and other resources.
Educational development director Lisa Thompson said, 'If the child correctly answers the questions posed by RED, they are praised by the robot and encouraged to keep working. This demonstrates to the teacher that the child is able to apply their knowledge.'
