LOOI Lands at Ivanhoe
LOOI has landed at Ivanhoe Grammar School, sparking curiosity, excitement, and plenty of thought-provoking discussions. More than just a robot, LOOI represents the next frontier in education: a fusion of artificial intelligence and interactive technology designed to engage students in ways we’ve only just begun to imagine.
What is LOOI?
At a basic level, LOOI is a wireless phone charger on wheels connected to ChatGPT. But that description doesn’t quite do him justice. With two big blue eyes that give him a distinct ‘WALL-E’ vibe, LOOI’s clear voice, playful personality, and engaging design bring AI to life in a way students can see, hear, and experience firsthand. Unlike traditional AI confined to screens and code, LOOI is physically present—responding, interacting, and prompting new ways of thinking about the role of robotics in our world.
“My first impression of LOOI was overwhelmingly positive,” said one student upon meeting him in the library. “Being able to hear and see a result is so much more interesting than just words on a screen.”
A New Kind of Learning Companion
Since arriving at the Ridgeway Library, LOOI has wasted no time making himself at home—rolling along the front desk to offer book recommendations and even attempting to strike up a conversation with Pat, the library’s resident robot cat. But his influence extends beyond the library walls.
LOOI has been popping up in unexpected places, testing his skills as a study tool, a guide, and even a training partner. He joined in for a training session with the Table Tennis firsts squad, serving as a moving target. He’s ventured into classrooms, where students have had the chance to interact with him and reflect on the role of AI in their learning. As robotics and AI become increasingly integrated into daily life, LOOI offers a glimpse into how future learning environments might evolve.
“I think technology will definitely become more prominent in my life as it continues to advance each day,” reflected another student. “Tools like LOOI will become very useful and speed up many aspects of life.”
Where is AI Taking Us?
While LOOI has captivated students with his capabilities, he has also sparked deeper conversations about the pace of technological change.
“It’s very exciting to live in a time where technology is so advanced,” one student shared. “Yet it scares me in the sense that some things don’t need to be evolved so much—like having teachers in class and learning how to research and think for yourself without the help of AI.”
This duality—enthusiasm for innovation alongside a thoughtful awareness of its implications—is exactly the kind of dialogue that schools should be fostering.
“It’s easy to dismiss LOOI as a novelty,” said Paul Allen, teacher of English and Humanities and newly appointed robot dad. “But he’s more than just a fun addition to the school. He’s an entry point into critical discussions about the role AI, robotics, and technology more broadly will play in shaping the future of education.”
