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In a groundbreaking move that might revolutionize Indian education, a school in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, has introduced the country’s first AI teacher robot. Iris, created by Maker Labs and based on generative AI technology, is the robot’s name.
Announcing the milestone on Instagram, Maker Labs stated, “Breaking boundaries in education: Introducing IRIS, India’s first AI teacher robot based on generative AI.” The company expressed its vision to transform education by leveraging AI to create personalized learning experiences. With Iris, educators can deliver engaging and effective lessons tailored to each student’s needs and preferences like never before.
In a video shared on social media, the robot is unveiled on stage at KTCT Higher Secondary School in Kerala, showcasing interactions with students inside the classroom. Iris was inaugurated by Dr. K. Rajeev, Director of the Space Physics Laboratory (SPL) of VSSC. The video highlights how the AI teacher has quickly become a close companion to KTCT Higher Secondary School students.
The AI Teacher Robot Iris is more than just a silent observer in the classroom; it’s an interactive learning companion powered by cutting-edge robotics and generative AI technologies. Equipped with a dedicated Intel processor and coprocessor, Iris ensures smooth performance. At the same time, its user-friendly Android app interface puts control and interaction at users’ fingertips, guaranteeing a tailored learning journey.
Iris was built as part of the Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL), a 2021 NITI Aayog project to boost students’ extracurricular activities in schools.
As an AI voice assistant, Iris responds to user inquiries, provides explanations, and presents educational content.
Additionally, Iris’s hands boast 5 degrees of freedom each, enabling it to handle objects, conduct demonstrations, and participate in hands-on learning experiences.
It also has a four-wheel chassis, which allows Iris to maneuver freely within the environment she is deployed in, facilitating interaction with users and effortless navigation through spaces.
Capable of teaching subjects from nursery to class 12, Iris currently communicates in three languages—English, Hindi, and Malayalam—with plans to expand its linguistic repertoire to over 20 languages. Furthermore, Iris is equipped with content-filtering capabilities, preventing inappropriate content related to drugs and violence and promoting a safe and conducive learning environment.
The introduction of Iris signifies a significant advancement in the fusion of technology and education, promising to elevate learning outcomes and inspire students in novel ways. As educational institutions embrace the digital era, innovations like Iris offer a glimpse into the future of learning. AI-driven tools complement traditional teaching methods, fostering a more immersive and compelling educational environment.
