San Diego School Invests $500,000 in AI Humanoid Robots, Sparking Expert Concerns

Altus Schools, a San Diego charter school network, has allocated $500,000 for two ChatGPT-powered humanoid robots, positioning the acquisition as a pioneering step in educational technology. The initiative aims to explore the role of artificial intelligence and robotics in student education, with the robots intended for use at in-person resource centers.

The centerpiece of this investment is Ameca, a 6-foot-2 robot described as the "the world's most advanced AI-powered humanoid robot." Officials at Altus Schools plan to integrate Ameca into a pilot program designed to offer students one-on-one academic support as they work to recover credits and get back on track for graduation. Cathryn Rambo, Altus' dean of academic studies, referred to the project as an "innovative opportunity for your student to participate in a research-based learning experience," and stated that Altus is the first school globally to research the use of physical AI as a teaching partner.

Ameca is designed to adopt four distinct personas: Sage the Teacher, Remi the Wellness Coach, Ari the College and Career Planner, and Lexi the Translator. The introduction of a robot serving as a wellness coach has drawn particular scrutiny.

Critics have voiced significant concerns regarding the integration of such technology in educational settings. Wayne Holmes, a professor of critical studies of artificial intelligence and education at University College London, expressed skepticism about the available evidence supporting the effectiveness or safety of these tools in classrooms. "What we are increasingly hearing are bits of evidence that demonstrate the opposite," Holmes stated. His apprehension extends beyond academic performance, touching on potential psychological impacts.

Concerns about AI safety for children are not unique to this situation. Reports indicate that even OpenAI has not fully resolved challenges in ensuring AI chatbots are safe for younger users. Furthermore, discussions surrounding AI-induced psychosis, a phenomenon where users exhibit psychotic tendencies or have delusional beliefs reinforced by AI interactions, have emerged. Some individuals experiencing this have reportedly died by suicide, with children being particularly vulnerable to developing unhealthy attachments to AI chatbots.