Using a Social Robot to Aid Online Learning: Identifying Teachers’ Media and Digital Competencies, Barriers and Opportunities

Although the benefits of using social robots to increase engagement and boost learning are well documented (Belpaeme et al. in Sci Robot 3, 2018 [1]), less is known regarding the competencies to effectively incorporate them as a tool in online education, with the challenges and benefits thereof. This paper investigates the implementation of social robots as a pedagogical tool to support educators during online learning. Based on (Ferrés and Piscitelli in Comunicar 38:75–82, 2012 [2]) framework of media and digital competencies for teachers, this study investigates these skills, and the barriers and opportunities presented for teachers when using a social robot for online distance education. By means of a thematic analysis of in-depth interviews with educators in Chile, we identified main media and digital skills: basic programming; managing information and digital data; designing interactive activities; and developing work teams. The main barriers and benefits encountered are also provided. We conclude by providing advice for practitioners and avenues for future research.